Welcome to the official site of the OGLALA COMMEMORATION
The
American Indian Movement (AIM) was called upon a generation ago by the
Oglala traditionalists on the reservation to protect the People. These
individuals – men, women, and children – were routinely terrorized.
Acts of violence and retaliation were played out throughout the
community. No one was immune from the cruelty and pervasive violence
that gripped the innocent of Pine Ridge. In struggling to maintain
traditional values, AIM was sought out to provide assistance and
protection from a flawed tribal administration that failed to support
its people. The activists sought only to align themselves in solidarity
with the People against the forces which sought to undermine the tribal
sovereignty of the Oglala Nation. These threats existed not only on
Pine Ridge, but in countless other Nations throughout Indian Country as
well. After decades of neglect, exploitation, and marginalization,
opportunities arose that allowed the Oglala to rise above their
historical circumstances and multigenerational trauma to empower
themselves to bring about change through a return to traditional
values.
Answering the call for help, many traveled great distances to lend support and protection. One such individual was Leonard Peltier.
As with many, it was Leonard's desire to defend and protect
traditional people's right to exist and thrive that brought him to
Oglala. The events of June 26th are forever emblazoned in the
consciousness of all Oglalas; it is this date that has forever changed
and affected not just Leonard's life, but the life of all Indigenous
Peoples struggling for the right of self-determination and sovereignty.
To this day, Leonard sits in a prison which confines him
physically, yet fails to confine his spirit that transcends the brick
and mortar cell to which he is subject. It is this sprit of hope that
Leonard believes will heal Native Nations and unite them in the the
protection and preservation of sacred ceremony, culture, language, and
the responsible stewardship of the land and its resources for the
generations yet to come.
The Oglala Commemoration Committee's goal is to honor Leonard's
wishes and to actively work to promote these beliefs and values.
The
Committee, through is efforts, continues to pay respect to those who
have made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of Indigenous Rights.
Join
us every June 26, in Oglala, South Dakota as "Honor our Warriors" This
is a free event and open to the public. A day of remembrance, honoring ,
memorials , food and music.
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