Despite our differences, when it comes right down to it, we are all human beings with similar feelings, desires, and beliefs.
While we often see stories of racism and discrimination in the media, on June 21st, 2014, two men from two different cultures came together in what can be described as an inspiring display of fraternity, love, and respect.
On this day, the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma was holding their annual powwow.
According to Bahkoje.com, this well-known event is a “celebration of homecoming and fellowship” amongst Bahkoje people. “It is a way of renewing old friendships and building new ones”— something which is perfectly displayed in the following clip.
The Bahkoje website says the powwow generally begins on a Friday evening with an event called the Grand Entry. This is “a time when veterans, chiefs, royalty, and dancers make a grand entrance into the sacred arena.”
During this particular powwow, Lance Corporal Trey Kent had been honored for his service by the members of the Oklahoma tribe. Later, to honor another veteran, he is asked to join in on a symbolic war dance.
Although some people would have denied the honor, feeling too self-conscious or unsure, the lance corporal jumped right in, doing his best to give the cultural tradition the honor it deserves.
According to Native-Dance.ca, ancient warrior societies would partake in these war dances as a way to prepare for battle, often simulating battle moves through the steps.
They explain, “They danced to the beat of the drum, while others in the community watched and encouraged them, building their enthusiasm for going to war.”
When arriving back home from battle, soldiers would perform another dance, using their bodies to tell of the battle that had just occurred.
Lance Corporal Trey Kent’s participation was captured on film by Hugh Foley, another attendant of the event.
The video is remarkable for a few reasons— but for many, it represents coming together, despite differences, to celebrate a common ground.
Watching them side-by-side creates a stunning juxtaposition: one is dressed in a military uniform while the other is adorned in traditional Native American attire— but both transcending cultural barriers, being joined as fellow warriors, but also as fellow men.
Since being uploaded over 3 years ago, Hugh Foley’s video has been viewed more than 2 million times.
It truly is a stunning example of putting aside personal differences in order to connect with another on a basic, human level.
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