Raw Travel Season 3 Episode 8 Tribal Tourism in Pine Ridge, South Dakota

In this episode of Raw Travel, the focus is on tribal tourism in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. Pine Ridge is home to the Oglala Lakota Sioux and the episode explores the unique cultural experiences that visitors can have when they visit the reservation.

The episode begins with host, Robert Rose, arriving at Pine Ridge and meeting with local guide, Wilmer Mesteth. Wilmer takes Robert on a tour of the reservation, highlighting significant locations such as the grave of Chief Red Cloud and the site of the Wounded Knee Massacre.

Next, Robert visits the Oglala Lakota Cultural and Economic Revitalization Initiative (OLCERI) where he speaks with founder and director, Jackie Belt, about the importance of tribal tourism in the area. Jackie explains that while Pine Ridge has had a difficult history, tourism has the potential to bring economic opportunities to the reservation while also helping visitors to learn about and appreciate Lakota culture.

Robert then heads over to the Pine Ridge Heritage Center where he meets with Tim Giago, a former newspaper publisher and member of the Oglala Lakota. Tim discusses some of the misconceptions that people have about Native Americans and the importance of cultural education. He also stresses the need for Native Americans to share their own stories and experiences rather than being defined solely by the history written by outsiders.

Throughout the episode, Robert participates in a variety of cultural experiences including a traditional dance performance, a tipi raising demonstration, and a visit to the Red Cloud Indian School. He also has the opportunity to speak with several members of the community, including artist Donald Montileaux and tour guide Tamera Sierra.

One of the highlights of the episode is when Robert visits the Lakota Buffalo Jump, a site where Native Americans historically hunted buffalo by driving them over a cliff. Today, the site is used for educational purposes and visitors can learn about the history of buffalo hunting and its importance to the Lakota people.

Overall, this episode of Raw Travel provides a fascinating look at the cultural experiences available to visitors in Pine Ridge, South Dakota. From historical sites to modern-day initiatives, tribal tourism is an important and impactful way for visitors to learn about and appreciate Native American culture.