Fighting for Native American Rights//Lakota Tribe in SD

Lillian Wessel Start Date: Oct 30, 2017 - End Date: Mar 8, 2018
  • South Dakota, United States of America

My Travel Story

by: Lillian Wessel Start Date: Oct 30, 2017 - End Date: Mar 8, 2018
For centuries the Lakota people have celebrated their rich heritage with traditional craft, festivals, and religious worship in the Black Hills of South Dakota. The second-largest Native American reservation, Pine Ridge, is home to over 15,000 Lakota people and stretches over 2.8 million acres (larger than Delaware and Rhode Island combined!). Yet amidst cultural diversity lies deep-rooted oppression, poverty, and marginalization. Over 80% of Pine Ridge residents are unemployed and the average per capita income is $4,000. Diabetes, heart disease, tuberculosis, and infant mortality far outpace national averages, and the Pine Ridge community continues to struggle with teenage suicide, alcoholism, and high incarceration rates. In collaboration with Re-member, participants will engage in service activities from building bunk beds to assisting with home repairs. Our team will be immersed in the unique culture, language, and tradition of the Lakota people and become partners in the fight for equality and empowerment.
  • South Dakota, United States of America