The
Lakota word for child is “Wakan Yeja” which means “sacred
being”.
According to a Lakota belief the wakan yeja is a gift from “Wakan
Tanka” (the “Great Mystery” or creator). When
it is born into this world it carries within it spiritual qualities.
These qualities need to be nurtured to ensure the well-being of
the child.
Large numbers of children/youth do not have access to ceremonies
and traditional home life. Without these teachings they don’t
have the skills to confront the negative lifestyle that exists in
today’s society.
"Let
us put our minds together to see what life we can make for our children."
This quote by Sitting Bull, Great Chief of the Lakota nation, reflects
the strategy of the Dakota Youth Project. Our intent, with the help
of Native and non-Native people, is to bring knowledge to the children
and families that will give them the skills and support for survival.
The healthy upbringing of the future generations and their learning
of traditional values will heal the sacred circle of our Native/Indigenous
way of life.
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"Let
us put our minds together to see
what life we can make for our children."
Chief Sitting Bull
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Mission
Statement |
"The
purpose and mission of the Dakota Youth Project is to help Native
children and youth to survive in today’s society by providing
them access to safe homes, educational opportunities, survival skills,
and traditional beliefs through educational experiences directed
towards individuals, families, and the public." |
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Updated: July 12, 2010
©
1999-2010 Dakota Youth Project, Inc.
©
Graphics by Sam Silverhawk
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