Honoring the Past, Building the Future#NAHM
As we come together to celebrate Native American Heritage Month, we pause to reflect on the journey of our people, the Siċaŋġu Lakota. We hold close to our hearts the prophecy of the 7th Generation, which speaks of a time when our descendants would rise to revitalize and restore what was once thought lost—our language, our sacred food systems, our health, and the Tatanka. Today, we are witnessing this prophecy come to life as our people lead efforts to reclaim our identity and our ways of life.
“A buffalo calf alongside its family at the Wolakota Buffalo Range, Spring 2024.”
At Siċaŋġu Co, we see these efforts every day. Through the Lakolya Waoniya language revitalization program, we are bringing our language back into the homes and minds of our people through this adult language learning program. This work isn’t just about preserving words—it’s about reconnecting to the strength of our identity as Lakota. Language is our worldview; it carries the values and teachings of our ancestors. Similarly, our work with Wakanyeja Ki Tokeyahci has now reached it’s fourth year in operation as a Lakota immersion school! The Siċaŋġu Food Sovereignty Initiative is more than just growing food—it’s about revitalizing relationships with the land, practicing gratitude, taking ownership of what we consume, and teaching future generations the importance of self-reliance and respect for Unci Maka.
“Our Lakolya Waoniya team presented Lakota language learnings skills to the 5th-8th grade students at Spring Creek Elementary School”
“FSI Director, Matte Wilson and students/relatives harvesting Tatanka meat at the Wolakota Buffalo Range”
As you can see, the work we are doing isn’t just about looking back—it’s about how we, as modern Lakota people, continue to evolve and adapt. In this spirit, we are excited to share a series of videos created by LaShaya LaPointe Whipple, one of our talented interns from Sinte Gleska University. LaShaya’s videos reflect what it means to be Siċaŋġu Lakota today, balancing our Lakota culture with the realities of modern life. Her interviews with Siċaŋġu Co staff touch on the everyday perspectives of Native people navigating two different worlds and reflecting on how we see ourselves in today’s world. These videos serve as a reminder that while our traditions are timeless, we are also vibrant, evolving people who are finding new ways to live out our identity in today’s society.
Are you ready for Siċaŋġu Co’s annual Tatanka Trot?
As we look forward to the rest of November, we are excited for our annual Tatanka Trot! We are reminded of the central role the buffalo plays in our culture and our efforts to bring the buffalo back to our land. The Tatanka Trot is a celebration of this mission, an opportunity for all of us to honor the buffalo’s significance to our people and to reconnect with our land, health, and identity. As we close out a successful and impactful year, this event represents so much for our team. Each step is a reflection of our commitment to restore the balance that the buffalo represents for our communities and we hope that you will participate virtually!!!
Tatanka Trot Countdown! 🦬🏃♂️
Only 13 days left until Thanksgiving, and we're gearing up to run, honor, and give back! Again, this is a celebration of Lakota culture and the Siċaŋġu Oyate.
Join the movement!
There’s still time to become a Tatanka Trot Ambassador. Help raise awareness for Siċaŋġu Co and the Wolakota Buffalo Range — home to the world’s largest Native-managed bison herd — and support a thriving future for the Siċaŋġu Oyate.
Donate $40 or more, and get a free moisture-wicking Tatanka Trot shirt with free shipping! Wear your support proudly wherever you are.
Top Ambassador Prize:
A custom Sicangu Co Yeti tumbler!
Contact Brandi Charging Eagle at
📧 brandi@sicangu.co or ☎️ (531) 292-5146 to sign up.
“A custom Sicangu Co Yeti tumbler awaits for our Top Ambassador!”
“Tatanka Trot T-shirt”
Become a part of our fifth-annual Tatanka Trot!
“Winter last year at the Wolakota Buffalo Range, honoring the return of the buffalo, a symbol of resilience and strength for the Sicangu Oyate."