The buffalo is one of the most important and potent symbols of Lakota culture. Now, a new project aims to use the animal as a better path forward for young indigenous people.
Organizers say Sacred Storm Buffalo is more than just a meat processing plant. It’s a community, a home, and a career for those that chose to get involved.
Now the project is receiving $1.6 million seed loan from NDN Collective, a Rapid City-based indigenous advocacy network.
Tawny Wilson is director of lending with the group.
“NDN Collectives decolonized lending program prioritizes projects that balance meaningful impact with financial sustainability, and Sacred Storm hit the mark on every single one of these criteria," Wilson said. "This project supports a greater network of community support, improving food security, workforce development, preservation, and supportive housing in the region.”
Chris White Eagle oversees the project and serves as executive director of Wanbli Ska. He said it’s a meaningful alternative for young Lakota people facing challenging economic situations.
“The fact that these boys get some stability in their life financially, and the fact that they’re able to have a house they can actually call their own," White Eagle said. "A lot of these boys have been couch surfing, they come from broken homes, and they don’t have a place they can normally call their own. I think that’s the most rewarding work in the whole world.”
White Eagle said it’s hard, but life-changing work.
“Butchering buffalo isn’t the lightest work, but I just think of growth," White Eagle said. "When it comes to this plant, it’s more than just bringing back the buffalo and getting the meat back to our people, it’s saving young men’s lives so they aren’t getting into the court system. It’s saving lives so they aren’t doing anything to take their lives. So, it’s more.”
He adds for those interested in getting involved, it’s a simple as stopping by the Valley Drive facility and getting a foot in the door.