‘Grizzlies in the Wild’ Features Kyiyo Pow Wow

MISSOULA – The University of Montana today released a new “Grizzlies in the Wild” video on Zachariah Rides At The Door, a UM student from Browning who helped organize the first in-person Kyiyo Pow Wow since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In the latest installment of the University’s video series, Rides At The Door describes his growth as a student at UM, which centers on how he used dance and his leadership role with the Kyiyo Native American Student Association to connect to his Blackfeet culture and develop the leadership skills to host one of the longest-running student powwows in the country.

“It’s a celebration,” Rides At The Door said about the powwow. “Being that they couldn’t put it on for the past two years, I am so excited for our student members who have never seen Kyiyo.”

The Kyiyo Pow Wow was held last month on the UM campus, bringing together Native Americans from across the nation and Montana. The annual event celebrates the rich heritage of tribes and Native cultures while sharing it with the University and future generations.    

“If you are able to help your people, do it,” Rides At The Door said. “It makes your heart feel good.”   

“Grizzlies in the Wild” is a digital video series created by UM to showcase students and employees who make Montana’s flagship university dynamic and unique.

To view all editions of “Grizzlies in the Wild,” visit the University of Montana YouTube page.

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Contact: Dave Kuntz, UM director of strategic communications, 406-243-5659, dave.kuntz@umontana.edu.