Her dance was a swirl of color and motion timed to the beat of sacred tribal drums.

She danced to honor her forebears. She danced to keep the traditions of her Native American tribe alive and vibrant. And she danced to help bridge the gap between those who descend from American Indians and those who descend from the Europeans who settled in this land.

On Saturday and Sunday, this Native American dancer joined dozens of others in Chuckatuck to celebrate their heritage, to honor those who came before them and to teach folks young and old a little bit about their culture — because we respect that which we understand.

The annual Nansemond Indian powwow is a spectacle of colors, textures, drumbeats, tastes and smells, presented by tribal leaders as homage to generations past and a gift to generations to come. It is an event that can be enjoyed and appreciated regardless of skin tone or native connection.

As always, the Nansemond tribe did itself proud this year, presenting for Suffolk and the surrounding community a celebration of a culture that stretches back for hundreds of years.

Those who attended the powwow were blessed by it. And Suffolk is blessed for the heritage it boasts of this great people.

If you missed the powwow this year, be sure to put it on your calendar for next year. You’ll be glad you did.