Monique Jones, 20, of Columbus, Ohio performs a fancy shawl dance representing the beauty of a butterfly at the CMU Pow Wow, "Celebrating Life," March 23 at McGuirk Arena.

Central Michigan University's annual "Celebrating Life" Powwow was canceled for the first time in its 31-year history due to the coronavirus pandemic, according to Director of Native American Programs, Colleen Green.

"The CMU Powwow was created to educate and enrich the CMU community on aspects of the traditions and culture around the gathering," Green said.

The annual powwow, which was scheduled for March 21-22, allows students and community members to take part in the Native American tradition of coming together to sing, dance and make or strengthen relationships.

"I made the decision to cancel based on my communications with university leaders and the guidance about events recommended by the CDC," Green said.

According to Green, the event and the related services were canceled in time to avoid any financial deficits.

"If there is an opportunity to reschedule it in the future, we will," Green said.