“It gives us the opportunity to focus on what this herd has always meant to our tribes and gives us the chance to share their history,” said Noem. Kristi Noem said she believes this strengthens the relationship among the nine tribes in South Dakota.
For Native Americans, the buffalo are referred to as pté oyate, a way of life. “As we always do as Indian people, we pray for these buffalo as well too,” said Dave Flute, South Dakota Secretary of Tribal Relations.īison are sacred to Indigenous people, serving as food and shelter. To start the annual roundup was a prayer for the riders. “I’d be lying if I didn’t say a little apprehensive,” said Hornbuckle. As a rider, part of the experience is being next to the buffalo, never knowing whether a buffalo could turn back at your horse.
