Lakota tribal members from the Pine Ridge Reservation are calling for a name change of the highest point East of the Rocky Mountains. The designation “Harney Peak” has been offensive to Native Americans across the region for more than a century.
General William S. Harney was “honored” by a fellow U.S. Army officer in 1857 by having a 7.000 foot-high peak in the Black Hills bear his name.
The dedication came as a result of Harney’s actions in the 1855 Battle of Ash Hollow, in Nebraska, where more than 80 Lakota men, women and children were killed.
Basil Brave Heart is a Lakota elder and Korean War veteran. He’s pushing to have the name of Harney Peak changed in light of the general’s behavior in combat.
“The values seem to represent that it’s okay to name a peak in the sacred Black Hills after a man who committed a crime against humanity,” Brave Heart observes. “Also…what really bothers me too…is this rules of military engagement.”
Brave Heart notes that while serving in Korea, he and his fellow soldiers fought to preserve the Constitution. He adds that honoring Harney’s actions is a reflection of the country’s values toward human decency.
Brave Heart is suggesting the name be changed to “Black Elk Peak”. Myron Pourier, a descendant of legendary Lakota spiritual leader Black Elk, agrees and notes that efforts to change the name are being conducted in a peaceful way.
The Black Elk family has received a letter of support from the family of William Harney regarding changing the name of the peak designated for their ancestor.
The procedure for making the change would require applying to the state’s Board on Geographic Names. If approved, the request would then be sent to the U.S. Board on Geographic Names for a final decision.