Thank you to everyone who supported the 500-mile Sacred Hoop Prayer Run and for enabling us to do the necessary groundwork to document this beautiful event and coordinate efforts with several organizations on Pine Ridge and Rosebud reservations to plan for our upcoming youth programs.
We raised enough money to help cover the costs of the 500 Mile Sacred Hoop Run, purchase camping equipment for the youth, sponsor meals for the runners, and cover necessary expenses for the Run. We spent 6 busy days following the runners on their 500 mile journey around the Black Hills, a journey that took them to numerous sacred sites in South Dakota, Nebraska, Wyoming, and Montana. The youth spent long days, in triple digit heat, running and carrying the sacred staff which carried the prayers for all the people. Each day began and ended in a prayer circle and runners camped every night in locations that had sacred and historical significance. The run passed through many places where historical tragedies had taken place and the prayers were focused to bring healing to these sites.
Even though many generations have now suffered the devastating effects of colonization, the traditional Lakota ways hold the wisdom needed to address the issues reservation youth are so challenged by. Those who are working to revitalize the traditions are creating effective solutions for the youth and need to be supported. The film will highlight these efforts and the urgent need for them.