The Bureau of Indian Affairs, Department of the Interior, announced today that a completely updated "American Indian Calendar" is available for purchase from the Superintendent of Documents in Washington, D.C.
The Calendar, a much-requested booklet, lists important Indian events primarily in the 25 states where there are Indian areas with an official Federal relationship, gives information on pow-wows, rodeos, dances, religious observances, and arts and crafts exhibitions.
Typical listings include: June and July celebration of the Navajo Tribe's Centennial in Arizona and New Mexico; the Cherokee drama, “Unto These Hills," performed from June through Labor Day at Cherokee, N.C.; an August all-tribes pow-wow in Sheridan, Wyo., climaxed by the election of a new Miss Indian America; a Choctaw Indian Fair in mid-August at Philadelphia, Miss.; the late November wild rice harvest at Nett Lake Village, Minn.; the Creek Indian Stick Ball Game throughout the summer, near Holdenville, Okla., and the numerous Pueblo dances and observances throughout the year in New Mexico.
In announcing the booklet, the Bureau noted that many Indian observances depend upon seasonal activities and cannot be pinned down in advance to exact days. Tribal medicine men sometimes choose the day when portents seem best to them. Tourists are advised to check in advance with local Bureau offices and. chambers of commerce for specific dates.
Commissioner of Indian Affairs Robert L. Bennett suggested that because of restrictions on foreign travel, many thousands of people this year will turn to Indian reservations for fishing and hunting, hiking and sight-seeing.
"In almost every case, visitors are welcomed by the Indian people," he said. "Each reservation has its own simple rules and they should be honored. The use of liquor is forbidden on most reservations, and the taking of pictures should be carefully checked with local authorities."
Pictures may not be taken of certain religious ceremonies, and it is advisable to ask permission before taking pictures of individuals.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs' "American Indian Calendar" is priced at 30¢ and may be obtained by writing the Superintendent of Documents, Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
