Learning, a never-ending part of our lives, whether it comes from a lecture, book, projector or the more modern Smart Board, each has its own way of giving us new information from the highly interesting to the downright dull. Though we, as students, are used to all types of learning materials, the best type of learning seems to be that of experience.
The Southwest Minnesota State University Oyate Club recently ventured to the Pine Ridge and Rosebud Indian Reservations, both located in South Dakota, for a chance to learn more about the native culture and history first-hand. Several club members share their experiences and hope that this trip will one day be open to more clubs and students.
“This was my first time being totally immersed in a new culture, and learning the stories, history, and meeting the people was an amazing experience,” Steven McGeary, club president, said.
“I learned so much about the old Lakota way of life…their traditions…the stories attached to their culture…also their intense struggle with maintaining the Lakota way of living,” Kayla Nielsen, club member, said.
Oyate club vice-president, Reanna Jacobs, shares that what she takes away from the trip is “a sense of knowing as well as understanding my historical past…I feel as though I’m closer to my family or “Tioshpa” (extended family) due to connecting with others.”
“I personally liked the opportunity to learn about and explore the reservation of my relatives. It is important to know where you came from and how that impacts you as an individual,” Michele Knife Sterner, club advisor, said.
The group was able to visit with members of the Lakota community and traveled to various parts of the reservations. The sharing of personal and historical stories was an important part of the club member’s experience.
“We were surrounded by people who were very proud of their Lakota roots. We were able to speak to so many people that really have a heart to see positive things come out of the reservations. Although the people struggle, there is still great hope in their future,” Nielsen said.
Sterner “believe[s] this trip allowed Oyate club members the opportunity to see that American Indian culture and history is very diverse.”
The Oyate Club hopes to continue their learning with future trips and all hope to see it opened up to the students and clubs of SMSU.
Oyate Club members believe that this trip would be valuable to many students, including history and social work majors. It would also benefit several clubs and organizations, international students and those interested in the Native American culture.
“The opportunity to travel to a different state and learn about a group of people who are outside of your own comfort zone is always an educational experience,” Sterner said.
“This trip opened my eyes; I was able to fully imagine, see, experience their true rich culture, untouched and unglamorized by America’s more dominant culture. I didn’t expect a life-changing experience, but I can honestly say I had one there,” McGeary said.
“I would like to thank my relatives for helping me set up the trip. Without their knowledge and their ability to share it with others, this trip would not have been successful,” Sterner said.
All club members would like to thank Sterner and trip guides, Lynn LaPointe and Leland Little Dog, and all guest speakers for this experience.
