> I've a question.....does anyone know anything about someplace called
> the Lakota Institute on the Rosebud Reservation? Someone around these
> parts is conducting sweats and says they attended said institute....personally
Not any more. It WAS a wonderful program in the summer led by a man named
Albert White Hat, under the auspices of Sinte Gleska College (now University).
It took place over the course of two weeks in and around Albert's home and the
SG campus, and provided an introduction to Sioux culture to a largely non-Indian
audience. I never attended the Institute, but friends of mine that did
described it as a very moving experience. It provided Albert and other teachers
a format for teaching about Indian culture that no classroom or textbook will
ever match. I don't know how many years it went on, but at least 3.
It was disbanded about 3 years ago by the SGU administration, who refused to
give Albert the release time or use of facilities. Their concern was, in part,
that a great deal of resources were being used to instruct non-Indians when
there was such a crying need among their own people. They were also concerned
about the situation you have described: unqualified people taking their
superficial knowledge out and conducting ceremonies, etc. A little knowledge is
a dangerous thing.
While Albert is a very dedicated teacher, he will be the first to denounce
anyone using his teachings inappropriately. His intention has always been to
teach ABOUT Indians, not to MAKE them. I suspect he would be very disappointed
to learn of the activities in your area.
On the other hand, if you ever have a chance to sweat with Albert, take it. He
has a spectacularly beautiful homestead, and eagles soar overhead. Occasionally
one will come in for a closer look to, as Albert says, "make sure you're doing
it right".
Erik Phelps
CMCA/Division of Epidemiology
Eau Claire, WI/ U of M
715/835-3950
PHELPSEM@CNSVAX.UWEC.EDU
PHELPS@EPIVAX.EPI.UMN.EDU
*****Moderator's Personal Note*****
This is a personal note to the readership on this issue and
is not an official NativeNet position:
I know Albert Whitehat and agree that he would never
approve of Lakota culture being taken away by anyone. I Sundance
with him, as do some other NativeNet subscribers. He speaks out
often against those who would come to Rosebud and then take a
ceremony away. I have the highest regard and deepest personal respect
for Albert Whitehat and his family.
Jay Brummett
Cecala Ptehincalaska-Calf
jay@slcpl.slcpl.lib.ut.us
Moderation Staff: NatChat/Native-L
----------
***************************************