In 2015 tribal officials declared a state of emergency on Pine Ridge following a sharp increase in the number of suicides. Officials say last year there were more than 20 young people who took their own lives on Pine Ridge.
The Bear Program is a grassroots group on the front lines of the suicide epidemic. The volunteer group takes part in both direct crisis intervention and in powerful staged performances that address suicide head on.
This story takes us to the Bear Program float in the Parade of Lights in Pine Ridge. Along the way we’ll hear from members of the Bear Program about their efforts.
Just a warning here, this piece contains some graphic language.
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The Bear Program Facebook Page.