Celebratory Tribute to Ghost Dancing
In the spirit of learning and unity, we invite you to delve into the rich history and culture of the Oceti Sakowin (Great Sioux Nation). This December, the Oceti Sakowin marks three somber anniversaries, each carrying a heavy weight of historical significance.
The Ghost Dance, a practice that transcended tribal divisions and promised unity among Native Nations, was met with fear by the government due to its potential for unity among Native Americans. One of the key figures associated with the Ghost Dance was Sitting Bull, a prophet who received a vision at Deer Medicine before the Battle of Little Bighorn. In his vision, Sitting Bull saw the promise that ghost dancing held for all people, a promise of hope and the fulfillment of prophecy.
Sitting Bull once traveled to Nevada to meet with Wovoka, the Paiute spiritual leader who founded the Ghost Dance. It was there that he buried a medicine bundle, a symbol of his belief in the power of the Ghost Dance. However, Sitting Bull's life was tragically cut short when he was shot dead at his own home by law enforcement.
Another anniversary that the Oceti Sakowin commemorate is the Wounded Knee Massacre, which took place on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation. On December 29, 1890, more than 300 Lakota people, mostly women and children, were slaughtered by the seventh cavalry. This massacre is a stark reminder of the tragic consequences of broken promises and breached treaties.
The execution of the Dakota 38+2 is another anniversary that holds great significance for the Oceti Sakowin. On December 26, 1862, 38 Dakota warriors were hanged in Mankato, Minnesota, as a result of the Dakota War. This was the largest mass execution in American history.
An Oceti Sakowin woman calls for unity and participation to cease the destruction wrought by an unsustainable system of greed and hate. She encourages the continuation of the Ghost Dance spirit in the hearts of the modern day, with the promise of victory and survival for both humanity and Mother Earth.
In remembering these past atrocities, we are reminded of the importance of standing guard for the next seven generations, as Sitting Bull's visions of hope include the fulfillment of prophecy. We encourage you to join a membership community and support the work of Atmos Magazine as we continue to explore and celebrate the rich history and culture of the Oceti Sakowin.
[1] [Source for general information about Oceti Sakowin winter ceremonies and gatherings] [2] [Source for photographic evidence of Oceti Sakowin Camp during the Standing Rock protests in early December 2016]
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