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Responsibilities and Obligations: Understanding Mitakuye Oyasin


  • Racing Magpie 406 5th Street Rapid City, SD, 57701 United States (map)

Mitakuye Oyasin is a phrase in the Lakota language and culture that loosely translates to "we are all related" or "all my relatives." It is used by Lakota and non-Lakota alike. The phrase has been appropriated as an all-encompassing idea of inclusiveness. This exhibition is a reflective journey highlighting Lakota female perspectives surrounding this idea and concept of Mitakuye Oyasin. This project aims to engage Lakota artists, scholars, and general audiences to reflect on the (mis)appropriation of this phrase through mixed and multimedia installations. The exhibition provides an opportunity to share the Lakota language and build understanding within the Titonwan communities of the region as well as Native and non-Native populations in Rapid City through the arts and culture.  

Artists: Clementine Bordeaux, Mary V. Bordeaux, Layli Long Soldier

Special Acknowledgment and gratitude for the audio/video interview participants:

Jace DeCory - Minconjou Lakota 

Dusty L. Nelson - Oglala Lakota

Agnes Picotte - Ihunktowan/Oglala

Mabel Picotte - Oglala Lakota

Vi Waln - Sicangu Lakota

Earlier Event: June 10
Lakota Sewing Circle