End of an era: Dennis Bowen Sr. retiring after 50 years on the powwow trail

By Marshall Baker
Navajo Times

PHOENIX

With the world-renowned Gathering of Nations Powwow in Albuquerque coming up this weekend, this year’s festivities will be without its longtime voice and master of ceremonies, Dennis Bowen Sr.

With a tenure that spans over 30 years with the Gathering of Nations, Bowen is one of the most recognizable voices in Indian Country not only as a powwow emcee but as a community leader and cultural educator. Now retiring as a member of the head staff, Bowen reflects on his time spent speaking for the powwow and many more across the country, as well as the journey that led him there.

“It kind of sounds like saying, ‘I’m not going to announce here anymore,’ And that’s not the feeling that I have,” Bowen said.

To read the full article, please see the April 24, 2025, edition of the Navajo Times.

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