Sacred Lakota Ways: Mitakuye Oyasin will be shared in two special presentations on Saturday, August 31, at the Global Village Museum of Arts and Cultures.
The phrase Mitakuye Oyasin, which translates to “all my relations,” reflects the Lakota belief in the
interconnectedness and harmony between all forms of life.
“Join us for an afternoon and evening with wisdom-keepers of the Lakota ways carried through
generations of the Black Elk family,” said Jennifer Black Elk, daughter of Wallace Black Elk, world-
renowned Lakota Elder and Spiritual Teacher. “We will share the deep, loving, heart-opening spiritual
knowledge that is crucial for the coming together of all people as one family.”
From 1-3 pm, Jennifer, her daughter – Leslie Mora-Oropeza Black Elk, and her granddaughter – Wanbli
Akin Wi will outline the depth and meaning of Mitakuye Oyasin as related to the Medicine Wheel, the
embodiment of the connection between all life both manifest and unmanifest. This will lay the
foundation for drumming, singing, and traditional knowledge-sharing by Jennifer’s son, Kari Black Elk,
from 6-8 pm.
“Kari carries the deep wisdom of his ancestors, along with his own gifts of insight, for these times,” said
Jennifer. “When the four colors of humanity combine their efforts and journey together into our
connection with the sacredness and oneness of life that we carry in our hearts, we will create the
Hoop of Life.”
The registration price of $10 per person is for one or both presentations. As the presentations are
expected to sell out, early reservations are encouraged at globalvillagemuseum.org. Refreshments will
be served, and registration includes admission to the Museum’s four galleries. In the Main Gallery, One
World, One Family honors indigenous peoples and their cultures. Photographs of Native American
objects are showcased in the Museum’s Hall Gallery, and both exhibits run through Sept. 21.
The Global Village Museum is located at 200 West Mountain Avenue, and Museum hours are 11 am to
5 pm Tuesday through Saturday. Regular admission is $5 for adults, $3 for seniors and students, $1 for
ages 4-12, and free for children 3 and under. Adult tours receive discounted admission of $3/person.
For more information and closure dates during the change of exhibits, visit globalvillagemuseum.org or
call 970-221-4600.
