The Lakota people living on Pine Ridge Reservation could not openly practice their traditions or language until 1978, when the Native American Freedom of Religion Act was passed. This loss of cultural identity and heritage has had a profound effect on the community. We want to help empower the children by supporting programs that elders and educators deem important for restoring this strong Lakota spirit.
Lakota Language Education: The Lakota language is deeply rich and contextual, filled with history, cultural wisdom and an inherent understanding of life. We aim to support the preservation of this unique and valuable worldview by funding initiatives to revitalize language learning among youth.
PowWow Participation: The Pow Wow is a vital part of Lakota life. These important cultural events have far reaching positive effects in the community but they are chronically underfunded. Materials for traditional dress and ceremonial wear are needed, including fabric and sewing machines. Transportation costs are also needed as only one in five families has a car, making participation difficult. Larger Pow Wow events held out of state require assistance for transportation, lodging and food. These larger events can have a powerful impact in broadening the experience of children who rarely have a chance to travel beyond the reservation.
