By Eileen Iron Cloud | Board Member
MILA YATAN PIKA PTE OYATE OKOLAKICIYE
(KNIFE CHIEF BUFFALO NATION ORGANIZATION)
PROJECT REPORT
This report covers the period of November & December 2016, and January 2017. Mila Yatan Pika Pte Oyate Okolakiciye (Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Organization) continues to provide a home/pasture for members of the Pte Oyate (buffalo nation) and the community continues to reap the benefits in terms of spiritual and physical nourishment from them.
November, 2016
November 05 – The Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Organization held a strategic planning meeting in Porcupine, SD with Dave Bartechi of Village Earth, Inc.. Working session included revisions of the vision/mission statement and the name change from Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Organization to “Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Society,” drafting a calendar of events and other organizational matters.
November 10 – 13 – The “Lakota Koskalaka Wica Yuwita Pi” (Lakota Young Men’s Camp/Gathering) was held in Porcupine SD. This Camp was sponsored by a number of societies within the Tiospaye Sakowin organization. Due to the interest, two camps are held annually – fall and spring.
November 15 – The Society attended the Oglala Sioux Parks & Recreation Authority (OSPRA) meeting to make a presentation on a proposal to continue to sub-lease a pasture for a home for our relatives, the buffalo. The Board of Directors approved a six month contract with an option to sub-lease for another six months if the land is available.
The Society received a $10,000 grant from the Tanka Fund to assist with the pasture lease payment and with operational expenses. This is deeply appreciated and assists greatly with the care of the buffalo.
December, 2016
December 01 – The Society met to discuss and make further plans for the Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Society website. A meeting will be held in March with a Colorado company who will assist with the work.
December 16 & 17 – The Society hosted the “Lakota Mental Health First Aid Training” in Rapid City, SD. Twenty-two (22) participants representing various Sioux tribes in SD were in attendance. Trainers were Ethleen Iron Cloud-Two Dogs and Richard Two Dogs of Porcupine, SD.
December 21 – Spiritual offerings were made for the Winter Solstice (Wanicokan)
January 2017
The weather in December and January was extremely challenging with frigid temperatures often ranging below zero for days at a time. Along with extreme cold, blizzards covered the area with blowing and drifting snow. Many of the Pine Ridge Reservation residents were snowed in and could not leave their homes. For many days, schools were closed and events were cancelled due to this extreme weather.
Future Events and Plans
Young Men’s Camp – To Be Determined
Children’s Camp and Young Women’s Camp - July 5 – 9, 2017 at Camp Bob Marshall in the Black Hills of SD
Manhood Ceremony completed by a young relative.
Conclusion
Again, we extend a heartfelt appreciation to the people who support our efforts whether it be financially, physically or spiritually. Your support is truly appreciated and we especially appreciate the Tunkasila (spiritual entities) for their continued support and guidance. We also acknowledge the Pte Oyate (Buffalo Nation) for what they inspire in us and for their teachings, i.e., protection of the young, conservation of the land and the strength and fortitude to endure whatever is placed in our path. Lila wopila tanka! (We thank you all very much).
CONTACT INFORMATION
Email: knifechiefbuffalonation@gmail.com
Telephone: 605-441-2914, 605-407-0091
or www.villageearth.org look for Knife Chief Buffalo Nation Organization under Global Affiliate.
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