Apache Pride - Dishchii' Bikoh Apache Group

"Each Apache leader or warrior of the past deserves a place of honor because they, based on their traditions and knowledge at hand, did the best they could to survive a tumultuous lifestyle, especially when intruders' intention was annihilation.
We are here, we are still here, because some survived. With grateful hearts, we give honor to the ancestors of a people called APACHE. " – Dishchii' Bikoh Apache Group - Crowndancers
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The most way of commemorating the ancestors, today is the living culture and traditions the Apache still practice to honor their ancestors and to call on them for strength. Among one of the most spectacular of all Native American dances is the Apache Crown Dance - Ga’an.
The Mescalero Apaches, descendants of Geronimo and his warriors, perform the Crown Dance, also known as the Mountain Spirit Dance. The Crown Dancers represent the Ga’an, the spirits of the mountains, who danced and drummed deep in the sacred heart of the mountains. Their powers were thought to assist and protect the Apaches from epidemic diseases and enemies. The Anglo term "Crown Dancer" refers to the elaborate wooden slat headdresses worn by the Ga’an Dancers. The Black dancer represents the East, the Green one, South; the Yellow is of the West, and the White dancer represents the North. The fifth dancer is the ‘clown’, the revered leader who ensures that everything is in order. Energetic dances summon the Ga’an’s power and are accompanied by singing and music. Symbols such as the sun and moon, white triangles representing the sacred mountains, and evergreen boughs, absorb harmful spirits and intercede on behalf of the ill. The Ga’ans or Apache Crown Dancers imitate the mountain spirits and participated in powerful ceremonies to gain the blessings of the mountain spirits. Dances are performed to heal the sick, drive away evil and to bring good fortune.
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