Author Archives: Tristan Picotte
World Water Day: Water Scarcity for Indigenous Peoples
This year, World Water Day focuses on “leaving no one behind” without a reliable water source and water as a basic human right for all.
The Native American History of Groundhog Day
Discover how Groundhog Day has ties to Native American history, both in the hometown of Punxsutawney Phil and the groundhog in general.
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Native American Rights
On Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, remember that King’s actions aided Native Americans more than most of us know. He advocated for the desegregation of Native Americans and inspired much of the modern-day advocacy for Native rights.
Christmas Season in Native American Cultures
Approximately 110 reservation communities served by Partnership With Native Americans will receive gifts or meals this holiday season, brightening the holidays for nearly 30,000 Native American Elders, families and children.
Giving Tuesday: Three Reasons to Remember Native Americans
While there are many reasons to give back to Native peoples, here are three important ones. I join PWNA in encouraging you to remember Native Americans in your holiday giving this year.
Storytelling in Native American Cultures
For centuries, us Lakota have carried our past through storytelliing, or oral tradition as we call it. Our stories tell the origin of entire nations, why animals looked or acted the way they did, and where or how entire cultural traditions originated.
Native History: The Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867
In the Medicine Lodge Treaty of 1867, five tribes ceded familiar lands and hunting grounds, in exchange for allotted reservation lands. They also unknowingly gave up their freedom to leave the reservation or practice their religion and traditions. Doing so was considered a breach of treaty, although the U.S. found reason to breach the treaty around 1903 when the Lone Wolf v. Hitchcock case was before the Supreme Court.
A Native View on Spirit Animals and Animal Medicine
Spirit Animal, Animal Guide, Spirit Helper. These terms are used among different cultures to describe spirits of benevolent nature, usually helping someone during a hard time. These spirits can bring strength, insight, and even a sense or feeling to someone who needs it.
Summer Reading List
A good book can be hard to find, even more so one that’s Native-focused. When I was young and would get into trouble, my dad wouldn’t ground me. Instead, he’d often give me a topic to research or a book to read – always on Lakota culture – and have me write a short paper […]
Purple Heart Appreciation Day: Honoring Our Combat Veterans
Since Sept. 11, 2001, nearly 19 percent of Native Americans serve in the military — a higher rate than any other minority in America. One veteran an Purple Heart recipient is furthering his contribution to defense of our country, with support of the American Indian Education Fund (AIEF) program.