Kassie John crowned Miss Indian World at 2024 Gathering of Nations
Kassie John was crowned the 2024 Miss Indian World on Saturday,
April 27 at the Gathering of Nations.
By ROSELYNN YAZZIE
Sho-Ban News
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. — Kassie John from the Diné Nation of Rock Point, Ariz. was crowned the 2024 Miss Indian World (MIW) at Gathering of Nations on Saturday, April 27.
Additionally, John won the Best Public Speaking Award. During the Public Speaking competition, she was asked to talk about a food, beverage, or plant and its significance to her tribe. She talked about corn and said she enjoys it in the form of blue corn mush. She explained the preparation and how it consists of dried blue corn, ground into a fine powder and mixed with juniper ash. It’s used to heal and nourish the body as it's a good source of calcium and makes people strong and powerful.
Her traditional talent was a demonstration of the Skip Dance alongside her uncle. She said as Native people it's vital to carry on traditions through songs and dances.
John is 25-years-old and a graduate of the University of Utah with a Bachelor of Science in Multiple-disciplinary Design.
This year’s MIW pageant had 25 contestants, who demonstrated their knowledge of their tribe’s traditions, history, ancestors, and culture. During the four-day competition, contestants earn points based on their performance in public speaking, traditional talent, interview, essay, and dance.
Other recognition during the crowning ceremony was as follows:
MIW’s first runner-up is Arella LaRose of the Kashia Band of Pomo Indians from Stewart’s Point Rancheria Reservation, Calif., second runner-up is Shenoa Jones, Diné of Rock Point, Ariz.
Traditional Talent Award winner is Shenoa Jones, Diné Nation from Red Rock Springs, Ariz.
Best Dancer Award winner is Taylor Campbell, Oglala Lakota from Manderson, S.D.
Best Personal Interview winner is Shabanaa Bush, Gun Lake Tribe from Wayland Mich.
Best Essay winner is Arella LaRose, Kashia Band of Pomo Indians from Stewart’s Point Rancheria Reservation, Calif.
Miss Congeniality is Charon Otero, Diné Nation from Na’ Naeelziin, N.M.
The Miss Indian World pageant began in 1984, since then young Native American women ages 18-25 have traveled from all regions of the continent to represent their tribes and compete for the coveted crown. Its purpose is to give young Native American women an opportunity to showcase their tribes and cultures; while serving as a cultural Ambassador of Native Americans by demonstrating the pride and continuance of the diverse cultures of Native people.
