Earth's Sacred Wonders

(rhythmic music) (chanting) -

Narrator

Now, spiritual guides called Crown Dancers must unlock the door to the spirit world by dancing and chanting. (chimes) (whooping) (men chanting) Once the power of White Painted Woman is believed to be flowing, the girls go inside the big teepee and begin to dance. Over the next three days and nights, they will increase the length of time they dance for as they re-enact the Apache story of creation. (chanting) (whooshing) It's said White Painted Woman was impregnated by the sun and the rain, giving birth to two children. They helped save the world from destruction, making it a safe place for the Apache people to live. (men chanting) (percussion) Like many Native American ceremonies, it was outlawed by the US government in the 1890s and could only be practiced in secret. The ban was only lifted in 1978. But even today, the ceremony remains a closely guarded event only witnessed by immediate family. -

Girl

There's stories that are told in there, just the power of everyone praying for the girl to be strong is giving her help during the whole process. (whooshing) (somber music) (wind blowing) -

Narrator

On the third night, the girls dance for seven hours in a single session. (percussion) (chanting) (fire crackling) But now, on the fourth and final night, they face their biggest test. (rhythmic music) Jordan and Jaelyn leave the big teepee. They are now ready to join the Crown Dancers for the last step in taking on White Painted Woman's power. And tonight, they must dance non-stop from dusk till dawn. (rhythmic music) -

Girl

Everyone gathers around and just the power of my late ancestors, that power lifts me to be stronger,