The 7th Annual OGLALA COMMEMORATION June 26, 2006 |
The morning of the 26th, began with breakfast and a caravan to Oglala. Gina Thomas, committee member, went to the Bro. Rene Hall to start the cooking for that night's CommUnity Feast, as we headed to the Little Family Cemetary. Once again, people had gathered from around the country to join us in prayer for Joe Stuntz, June Little, and other warriors who had given their lives to the struggle. Fred Cedar Face with the assistance of his cousin Pat Janis led the prayers with the songs being sung by Billy Good Voice Elk Jr. and Elk Nation. |
We actually running a little early for a change and the Memorial Walk began before the OST Police escort arrived. We did however have the assistance from our security crew along with a harley escort by Galeson Eagle Star and Beau Little. The day was warm and the sun shining down on all the walkers, but the walk went well. Upon our arrival at the Jumping Bull property we gathered under the beautiful pine arbor which had been built for Calvin Jumping Bulls memorial a week earlier. Fred once again led us in prayer and Elk Nation in honor songs Eileen Janis read Leonard's statement and JD Nash read the names in memory of the Reign of terror victims. Members of the families of those who crossed over in Spirit World in the last year, spoke on behalf of their loved ones. These included Roselyn Jumping Bull, Fred Cedar Face, Pat Janis, Ivas Standing Soldier, Cheri Haney, Wilma Blacksmith. With words shared, the memorial cakes were served and a very special thanks to all the children who served the elders and others. I was very proud of them. |
Oasis Sound Crew was set up and raring to go as the Youth Concert started promptly at 7:00 pm, as usual the crew did an excellent job! Edgar Bear Runner, Harvey Arden and Galeson Eagle Star spoke thoughout the show. And we were very honored to meet the winner of this year's Peltier Honorary Scholarship, Ms. April Merrival |
The performers at this year's Concert for the Youth were at their best. each delivering a totally outstanding performance. Elk Nation with Traditional Drum, Julian B with special guest Mekko, coming from Oklahoma, Dale Alan coming from Michigan, Native Era- Pine Ridge's own. Blues from Skylar Wolf all the way from the Navajo nation, Buggin Malone coming from Minnsota, they all did a great show, with elder and youth alike tapping their feet and dancing |
WE WOULD LIKE TO THANK EVERY ONE WHO MAKES THIS EVENT POSSIBLE: The Jumping Bull Family The Little Family The Janis Family The Blacksmith Family The Catches Family The Cedar Face Family The Haney Family Elk Nation OST Police Sister Connie Oasis Sound Security crew The cooks and servers Clean Up Crew Dennis Running Hawk Les Burris Craig Pak The Parchcorn Family Skylar Wolf & Family Buggin Malone & Family Julian B & Family Native Era The Cross Family Dale Alan Harvey Arden Keith Rabin Galeson Eagle Star AIM NC AIM GGC NAICCO AISC @ OSU Native Voices - Cincinnati WRIR - Richmon Elk Nation Gerry Foley Oglala Lakota College Scholarship Committee The Children - Maya, Mekko, Che and Tater who served. And foremost: Leonard Peltier , who made this event possible this year with the support from the LPDC All those who supported the auction, either by donations or bids.. We thank you. The committee can not do this alone.. We need all family locally and afar to make this happen. " BLESSINGS" A personal note of Thanks: I sincerely thank my fellow committee members who works so hard and gives up so much of their family time to do this event. |