The songs of singers and drum groups, and the jingle of the dancers steps, make a distinctive soundtrack for the colorful grand march at the United Tribes International Powwow.

That means it's September in Bismarck-Mandan, and this is the 40th annual United Tribes powwow.

Everyone who can should visit the Lone Star Arena at United Tribes during the powwow. It's an opportunity for Indian and non-Indian people to see each other in a different light, one that may illuminate understanding and aid our community relations as we deal with important issues on and off reservation. It's a time for celebration, and giveaways, that share culture in any easy manner.

The powwow schedule began Thursday evening and continues through Sunday evening.

Relations between people of different backgrounds and races in Bismarck-Mandan are not always easy. There have been intense conflicts born of social and cultural differences and difficulties. Recent vandalism of a sculpture created by United Tribes students is a prime example of that conflict. Yet the powwow always seems hopeful.

Powwows brings people together in Indian Country. And the UTTC powwow gatherings have added importance with the addition of a tribal summit where social, political and government issues affecting Indian people, tribes and reservations are discussed. It also comes near the beginning of another school term at the college, and the acknowledgement of the good work that must be done.

Officials at United Tribes on Tuesday held a ground-breaking ceremony for the construction of a new science and technology center on campus. The first phase of the building will amount to 16,000 square feet and cost about $3 million. It will house the nursing, criminal justice and technology programs.

United Tribes provides important educational opportunities for Indian people in a setting that's supportive. The school is growing to meet a very big need. Enrollment now is about 1,000 students, with college officials expecting that to double in the future. This fall, 55 families were turned away because of lack of space. There also is an effort, in its early stages, to establish a law enforcement academy for the Bureau of Indian Affairs at United Tribes, addressing the demand for trained and qualified law enforcement officers on the reservations.

Dances, songs and regalia are all a part of the powwow. But most importantly, it's about people - friends, family and community. And sharing.