What was meant to be an October gathering became a November blessing. After adverse weather forced a rescheduled date, the Modoc Nation’s first inaugural Pow Wow, maklaks yeGa, or “people celebrate,” came to life on November 15, 2025 on the Modoc Nation Pow Wow grounds west of the Gathering Place and elder housing near Wyandotte, Oklahoma. And it was worth the wait.
The weekend kicked off Friday night with a bison chili cook-off, with meat generously provided by Modoc Nation Ranch. Competitors brought their best recipes and competed for a trophy and Modoc Nation Ranch swag, with Ranch employees serving as judges. Everyone went home with a full belly of chili and fry bread.
Saturday’s Pow Wow was an exhibition event filled with drumming, dancing, and song. Southern Sway led the drum circle and M.C. Henry Rondeau kept the energy warm and welcoming, offering humor and guidance throughout the day. Monica Super was also in attendance, sharing her knowledge to educate and guide attendees on all things Pow Wow.
Vendors offered food, coffee, crafts, and jewelry. Modoc Nation Behavioral Health was on hand with culturally meaningful giveaways, and the Cultural Preservation Department offered craft activities and a cool shaded respite from the midday sun. Elders, veterans, and students were each given moments of honor.
The weather on the rescheduled date was clear and beautiful, almost as if the land itself was ready to celebrate. This was a weekend of community, connection, and good medicine. Much gratitude to everyone who assisted, volunteered, and participated.
*Please note: this is an exhibition-only pow-wow, held in the spirit of sharing and ye’Ga (celebration), rather than competition.
MC – Henry Rondeau & Elected Council
ARENA DIRECTORS – Lynn & Mojo Schonchin
HOST DRUM – Southern Sway
CHILDREN’S EVENT LEADERS – Syd Colombe & Rachael Blackstone
VENDOR LEADER – Monica Super
WALKING EVENT LEADERS – Elected Council
October 25th holds deep meaning for the Modoc Nation. On this date in 1973, the Elected Council took a historic step, passing a resolution to request reinstatement as a federally recognized tribe. This action began our journey of restoration and reaffirmed our commitment to preserving our identity, culture, and sovereignty.
This year, we gather on this same meaningful date for our Modoc Nation Pow-wow, honoring the strength of our ancestors and the progress we have made together. As we dance, sing, and celebrate, we also remember the determination that brought us to where we are today.
Below, you can view the original resolution that set this journey in motion, a reminder of how far we have come and why we continue to stand strong.
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
*Please note: this is an exhibition-only Powwow, held in the spirit of sharing and Maklaks yeGa (people’s celebration), rather than competition
*Please contact Our THPO & NAGPRA Department, Audrey McGaughey at (918)325-8108 or email Audrey.McGaughey@ModocNation.com
Download the document, fill it out, and email it to:
Contact:
1) Chelsea Clark at Chelsea.Clark@ModocNation.com
2) Kayla Medlin kmedlin7788@msn.com
Download the document, fill it out, and email it to:
Contact:
1) Chelsea Clark at Chelsea.Clark@ModocNation.com
2) Kayla Medlin kmedlin7788@msn.com
Download the document, fill it out, and email it to:
Contact:
1) Monica Super southfork75@hotmail.com
2) CC Audrey McGaughey audrey.mcgaughey@modocnation.com