To kick off the program – students raised a traditional tipi. Resident Unci and Elder – Verola Spider – took students through the whole process. They selected a spot, made prayers, and raised the first poles.
Students set up the poles and wound the rope. Verola prepared the covering and gave a teaching on the significance of the poles and the way they come together.
Students finished wrapping the cover, and of course, film students helped to document the event.
Elders helped kids finish the process and Verola finished up with a blessing inside for each student. The tipi stood at the center of camp as a place of reflection, creativity, and Lakota identity.
