The Oceti Sakowin have a distinct and unique relationship with the Black Hills (He’Sapa).  Many of the original elements of culture, history, oral traditions and language are rooted in this land.  He’Sapa is the center of the spiritual identity of the Pte Oyate, promised to them for their “absolute and undisturbed use and occupation” in the Fort Laramie Treaty of 1868. However, the agreements in this treaty were not upheld. The land grab of the Black Hills has devastated traditional culture because, as Oglala Lakota Nation wisdom keeper Wanbli Khota (Ernest Afraid of Bear) says, “If you lose your language or your land, you are no longer who you say you are.”

Knowledge of this sacred relationship with the Earth has been mostly lost not only amongst our youth, but across all ages and cultures around the world resulting in an ecological crisis that demands our urgent action. Many people have suffered greatly in this forced "collapse of culture".  Without a safe place for traditional knowledge and cultural elements to be protected, encouraged, and pased forward, many youth have described a feeling of hopelessness.  To date, our country's policies have denied them the opportunity to walk as who and what they are.

There is no shortage of statistics and heartbreaking stories within native communities, such as suicide, gang murder, early alcoholism and drug addiction.  However, the strength and determination of our youth became apparent for all the world to see during the months-long prayer at Standing Rock.  They have decided to fight for the future of our communities and for Grandmother Earth.  This year's celebration is a thank you to them, and acknowledgement of the commitments made, and a prayer for the future.

We wish to awaken all Peoples to the devastating practices that are threatening our waters and air, not only in the Black Hills but in indigenous lands around the world.  We have many goals this fourth and final year.  We intend to strengthen and unite indigenous voices in speaking for the land, bring together International Elders from indigenous communities around the globe, honor the youth by giving them a voice to speak for the Earth, and join in traditional prayer and teachings.