A "potlatch" is a generic native Alaskan word used through out the state. It defines a gathering inviting all from the village, and usually all visiting the village. They are held to celebrate life & death, as well as other holidays or seasons. Arctic Village lost another Elder last week, the third this Summer. In response nearly every meal has been shared at either the Widow's house or the Brother of the deceased's house. Meals are made by several women of the village, in a potlock fashion everyone brings something.
It was a gorgeous evening in Arctic Village. The Brooks Range was illuminated with an alpenglow spotlight all evening. After dinner the Rev. Trimble and a visiting minister from Venetie grabbed acoustic guitars. They sang gospel songs for a while on the front porch. I would have stayed until conclusion, but I had already committed to the kids I would open the school gym for basketball night.
Arctic Village is turning me into a heavy carnivore. My plate here is loaded with Moose and Caribou, all killed locally, some killed yesterday.
1 comment:
oh my gosh.
that is a pile of meat, if i have ever seen one... at least it is a meat that was sustainably resourced...
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