DLN Issues : The Selling of Indian Culture
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FAX 406.353.4440
happyresearcher@aol.com (Red Cherries)
FOR PRESS RELEASE
October 22, 2002
The meeting scheduled for the 20th of October, 2002 was a success. Those who came all shared in the common goal and sacred sense that we must endeavor to protect the sacred ways that were left for us by our Grandparents . The meeting went as scheduled and was well attended by the representatives of the Cheyenne Nation, Lakota-Dakota-Nakota Nations, The Arapaho Nation, and other concerned Nations. I am only sorry that those who were invited and accepted invites didnt show, and hope they would consider the current abuse and exploitation that effects all of us, not only the Tribes and representatives who were present.
The day started with a Sweat lodge ceremony and planting of a Lakota-Dakota-Nakota Staff on the mound in front of the Sweat Lodge representing unity among all present. Prayers and song were shared by those participating in the Sweat lodge. It was a very moving and powerful ceremony. After the sweat lodge ceremony all men in attendance entered the Tee-pee to begin in talks to address the issues of abuse and exploitation. Prayers again were shared by Chief Leonard Crow Dog, Bernard Red Cherries-Sundance/Arrow Priest, Joe Waterman - one of the four old men Northern Arapaho, William Lee Pedro-Medicine man Southern Arapaho, Chief Arvol Looking Horse - Keeper of the Sacred Buffalo Calf Pipe; 19th generation.
The meeting was then opened in discussion, and drafts of the protection request as per the American Indian Religious Freedom Act and request for changes were handed out. Again it was concurred that the situation of abuse and exploitation does exist and that its impacts on our Indian people must be dealt with in a slow and patient manner, with prayer and non-violent behavior leading the way. In the days of old our Chiefs, Warrior societies and medicine men were the council of the people. It was they who were given the burden to lead the people. Today we accepted this duty as is customary of our leadership as Chiefs, Medicine men, and Sundance leaders.
Today we took the first step by unifying our efforts and praying as Brothers in a stand that will define the future of our coming generations. It is this very stand that will enable us Brothers to inform America that our ways are not for sale and the abuse of these very sacred ways must cease. It was our Grandparents and theirs before them who left this path for us to follow. It is our duty to protect and save these sacred ways for our future generations. It was also decided that a total of four Sacred meetings will be held in council, as this is a very delicate matter that will affect many. Again this sacred gathering was not a gathering of ill will towards any one, white or otherwise.
Those who were present included the following:
1. Dana Buckles
2. Reggie Left Bull Sr
3. Jeff Lopez
4. Chief Leonard Crow Dog
5. Richard Crow Dog
6. Thomas Lopez
7. Gilbert White Dirt
8. Chief Arvol Looking horse
9. Chris Leith Sr
10. Joe Big Medicine
11. William Lee Pedro
12. Leonard Moss Sr
13. Joseph Watermen
14. Thomas White Sr
15. Bernard Red Cherries Jr
16. Butch White Dirt
At the conclusion of the gathering a Sacred Eagle feather from the staff was given to Bernard Red Cherries Jr by Chief Arvol Looking Horse, and was presented by Chief Leonard Crow Dog with song.
As well, the wives present of these mentioned and those ladies who came out of concern for this issue, I extend a big Cheyenne thanks HA-HO . Without you or your support we would be truly out of balance. The next meeting will be scheduled for Early December, and will be in Arapaho country in Wyoming. As dates are set, I will get this information out to you all and another press release will be forthcoming. The third meeting will be in Lakota country, with Chief Arvol Looking Horse and Chief Leonard Crow Dog coordinating that effort.
Again when dates are set I will be letting all know. Remember we must stand together for the protection of our Sacred ways.
Thanks.
Bernard Red Cherries JR
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