The Black Hills State University Center for American Indian Studies will host its 41st annual Lakota Omniciye Wacipi in the Donald E. Young Center April 18 at noon to conclude its celebration of American Indian Awareness Week taking place April 13-17.
“American Indian Awareness Week, highlighted by the 41st Annual Lakota Omniciye Wacipi, is a powerful reminder of the importance of cultural visibility and collective care,” said Jordon Mendoza, assistant director of the Center for American Indian Studies at BHSU.
The annual Wacipi is dedicated to educating the community about Native American culture, celebrating the rich cultural heritage of South Dakota, and features Indigenous dancers, singers, and drummers from all over the state.
This year’s American Indian Awareness Week theme is “Elevating Native Voices: Embracing Our Collective Impact.”
Presentations throughout American Indian Awareness Week will be given by Cante Heart, Bobbie Koch, Dew Bad Warrior-Gange, Marty Two Bulls, Dr. Brittany Bearstail, Bobby Pourier, and Tasha Peltier. Topics include Indigenous peacekeeping, Lakota public artworks, intergenerational hearing, and more. The speaking sessions will be held in Jonas Academic Room 107 and are free and open to the public.
"Through this year’s theme, emphasizing community, health, and education calls us all to listen, learn, and stand in support of Indigenous knowledge and leadership,” Mendoza said.
General admission to the Wacipi is $8. BHSU students, faculty, staff, children under 5, and seniors 55 and older may attend the event for free. For a full schedule of events and more information on American Indian Awareness Week or the Wacipi, please visit BHSU.edu/CAIS or contact Jordon Mendoza at Jordon.Mendoza@BHSU.edu.