Unlike our Annual Pow Wow, Tribal Gatherings ARE NOT OPEN TO THE PUBLIC!!!
They are for our Tribal Community and Invited Guests ONLY.
Nanticoke Lenni-Lenape Gathering Etiquette
- No alcohol, drugs, or firearms.
- No littering. Please clean up after yourself.
- If camping, you are responsible for your own trash removal.
- Keep track of your children. They are your responsibility.
- No shorts, cut-offs, tank tops, halter tops, mini-skirts, etc.
- * Suggested attire at the ceremonial circle*: Men – “NO” sagging pants, A-shirts, muscle shirts, or inappropriate graphics on t-shirt/shirts. Women – Long skirt and a shawl/shoulder covering/scarf. A shawl is also traditionally worn/required when around the drum.
- “NO” woman should be on their monthly cycle (MOON) near the ceremonial circle.
- “NO” pictures or videotaping near the ceremonial circle without permission from the spiritual leader.
- Men/boys/women must remove hats in the ceremonial circle.
- “NO” food or drink allowed in the ceremonial circle.
- Cell phones must be turned off in the ceremonial circle.
- Enter the ceremonial circle in a clockwise direction around the fire.
- Receive tobacco in your left hand.
- Always move in a clockwise direction around the fire.
- DO NOT break the ceremonial circle unless it is an emergency. *See Spiritual Leader*
- If you must leave the circle, go behind the person to your left and leave in a clockwise direction.
- Loud and irrelevant voices will not be allowed in or around the circle.
- Families of the people receiving names are asked to contribute food and assistance with the name giving feast.
- There should be an offering given to the spiritual leader if you are receiving a name.
- The person receiving a name should give their name giver a gift.
- The name giver is asked to give good thought and choose a name wisely. *See the naming book at the tribal office to avoid duplicating someone else’s name.*
- Tribal Office must be notified, at least one week prior to ceremony, in order to make preparations and have name giver review the naming book.
- Accommodations for the elderly and disabled will be made at the ceremonial circle for their comfort and safety