Back in the spring of 2023, families from all three districts gathered at the Hominy Indian Village Roundhouse for a handgame. Many years have passed since our people last gathered at the Zon-Zo-Li Roundhouse for a day of fun and fellowship. Thanks to the good spirit we experienced by all that day, we know there will be more to come down the road. "Handgame Hype" celebrates the good spirit that unites us, whether it’s for a meal, a dance, or some friendly competition between the districts. About the series: The Osage Nation Cultural Center and Language Department have collaborated to create a series of videos dedicated to sharing, preserving, and celebrating the values, teachings, and traditional ways of the Wahzhazhe people.
CULTURAL CONNECTION | The Native American Church was introduced to the Osage people in the late 1800s by the Caddo and Quapaw Tribes. This form of religion was prominent amongst Osages, with approximately 40 fireplaces active in its prime. The decline has waned over the years, leaving only a small handful of fireplaces active today.
**HAND GAME** | Hand games are vital in bringing our Osage communities together. They allow us to celebrate life and create opportunities for our people to support one another. Although hand games are not traditional for our tribe, our relationships with other tribes enable us to participate.