Lakota youth gain skills and sovereignty through Sacred Storm Buffalo

Sacred Storm Buffalo in Rapid City, South Dakota, is training young Lakota adults in buffalo processing as part of a workforce development program rooted in cultural restoration, according to Tribal Business News. Apprentices learn to raise, butcher and distribute meat, create products such as soap made from buffalo fat and engage in traditional practices, all while earning food certifications.

Founder Chris White Eagle said the work offers purpose and healing. The program includes a sober living “warrior lodge” and is supported by Hódhoka Kin Holdings, the Tanka Fund and other Native-led organizations. With funding from NDN Fund, Sacred Storm opened training centers and distributed 50,000 pounds of buffalo products within six months. Tanka Fund Executive Director Dawn Sherman said the program is helping restore the buffalo economy once central to Native life.