BHSU CENTER FOR AMERICAN INDIAN STUDIES TO HOST 40TH ANNUAL WACIPI

The Black Hills State University Center for American Indian Studies will host the 40th annual Lakota Omniciye Wacipi Saturday, April 12 at 12 p.m. in the Donald E. Young Center, bringing a close to American Indian Awareness Week April 7-11.  

The annual Wacipi is dedicated to educating the community about Native American culture, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of South Dakota, and featuring Indigenous dancers, singers, and drummers from all over the state. 

“Through our annual Lakota Omniciye Wacipi, which is now in its 40th year, we honor not only the rich traditions and sacred practices that have endured for generations but also the resilience that continues to shape the future of Indigenous peoples,” said Jordon Mendoza, Assistant Director of the Center for American Indian Studies at BHSU.  

Admission is $8 for the general public and free for children under 5, seniors 55+, and BHSU faculty, staff, and students. All are welcome to attend. 

This year’s American Indian Awareness Week theme is “Transforming the Narrative of Native Resiliency,” and will feature presentations by several speakers.  

“The theme of 'Transforming the Narrative of Native Resiliency,' serves as a powerful reminder of the strength, perseverance, and profound cultural heritage of our Native communities. American Indian Awareness Weeks elevates Indigenous voices, rewrites misconceptions, and celebrates the triumphs that reflect a legacy of endurance, wisdom, and hope,” added Mendoza.  

Presentations will be given by Robert Bordeaux, Dr. Lena Big Crow, Donita Fisher, Keith Brave Heart, Michaela Madrid, Kaylie Hairychin, Dr. Alex Archambault, and Billi Jo Beheler. Topics include food sovereignty, contemporary narratives in Lakota painting, Indigenous worldviews on water, and many more. Speaking sessions will be held in Room 107 of Jonas Academic and are free and open to the public.  

For a full schedule of events and more information on American Indian Awareness Week or the Wacipi, please visit BHSU.edu/CAIS.