The Spokane Falls Northwest Indian Encampment and Pow Wow was born out of collaboration among then-Spokane Mayor Shari Barnard, local tribes and the American Indian Community Center.

Nineteen years later, it looks like another joint effort is needed to keep the event alive.

The event organizer, Sharon Ortiz, says the traditional August event at Riverfront Park might have to be canceled if sufficient cash isn’t raised in the next two weeks. Thus far, a mere $82 has been raised. Last year’s event cost $27,000, and organizers were hoping to raise more than that to lure the better dancers with higher prize money.

It’s puzzling that an event that draws thousands of people each year has yet to break $100 in fundraising. A single reserve ticket to see the Police at the Gorge costs more – $236 – than has been raised for this signature summer event.

Maybe it’s time to charge admission. Maybe it’s time to tap the city’s share of the hotel-motel tax to give back to an event that brings in tourism dollars. Maybe the Spokane Regional Convention and Visitors Bureau can help.

It would seem that the event would be a natural for local businesses to sponsor. As Rich Hadley, president of Greater Spokane Inc., says, “The powwow is an awesome event and something we take great pride in.”

Solutions are worth pursuing, because the powwow is a rich cultural experience that reflects well on the community’s respect for the past and its commitment to diversity and diverse activities.

However, the city and governmental agencies should proceed with caution. Eighty-two dollars is an awfully meager sum, and it could signal an overall lack of commitment or enthusiasm from tribes, which have traditionally financed the event.

It’s fine to help with the funding, but government cannot be expected to assume nearly all the costs.

The Spokane Tribe has found a way to stage a powwow in Wellpinit. Several tribes put on the larger Julyamsh gathering in Post Falls. It’s odd that funds would dry up so dramatically for the Riverfront Park event.

Back in 1998, the powwow was in danger of ending when the city and the tribes struggled to work together. Then-Mayor John Talbott stepped in and got matters resolved. The current mayor, Mary Verner, who is part Native American, says she will soon convene a meeting aimed at a rescue.

We encourage partnerships to save this event. It would be sad if the drums fell silent along the Spokane River.