LIVING LAKOTA HISTORY

Thousands of college students have spring break these days. Many head for warmer places like a beach in Florida or Cancun. Others travel in search of learning adventures that broaden their understanding of the world. Students spend hours reading and writing about history. But if they don’t have an opportunity to reflect on past events how can they discover their relevance today? Our guided tours provide students with the opportunity to reflect on history so as to learn from it. Thus,  students of all ages coming to Pine Ridge have a chance of living Lakota history. They learn how past events shape life for thousands of families living on or near Pine Ridge Reservation even to this day.

These past few weeks Pine Ridge Retreat Center and Re-Member Organization hosted groups coming from as far away as New Hampshire and Florida. We were happy to share our living history and day to day life here at Pine Ridge.

LIVING LAKOTA HISTORY

Our days included  a visit to Wounded Knee. This is the site of the 1890 massacre where hundreds of Lakota, mostly unarmed women and children were killed in a conflict with U.S. Cavalry. Loss of innocent human life always serves as a pause for deeper reflection. And in this case it serves to learn from the dark moments of history so as not to repeat them.

We visited historical government buildings. We also visited the Kili radio station located in Porcupine. This radio station, Lakota owned and operated, provides news, information and a variety of music formats broadcasting throughout the reservation and beyond.

Finally, in the evening we sang, shared stories, and more. The students will soon return to their classes and their books. But they will remember what they learned here.  As one commented, “lessons on the ground-will not be forgotten”. It’s an honor to guide inspiring future leaders who want to learn more about Lakota Nation. Contact us to schedule your tour of Living Lakota History.