VIDEO: Bringing the Buffalo Home: What returning bison mean to Native Americans

Summary

This is the second installment of Tanka Fund's video series, "Bringing the Buffalo Home." This video explores the deep spiritual and cultural connection between Native Americans, particularly the Lakota people, and the Buffalo. The Buffalo provided everything—shelter, food, and spirituality. By restoring the Buffalo to their lands, Native Americans are reconnecting with their ancestors, honoring their heritage, and reviving economic and spiritual balance in their communities.

Key points

1. The Buffalo are central to the Lakota people's creation story, providing them with essential resources like shelter, food, and spiritual connection.

2. For more than 100 years, Buffalo have been absent from certain lands, causing a significant loss for Native communities.

3. Native ranchers are restoring balance by bringing Buffalo back to their livelihoods, helping to reconnect the people with their cultural heritage and each other.

4. The Buffalo are seen as relatives and ancestors, and their return is vital for both economic stability and spiritual well-being.

5. Harvesting Buffalo is a sacred act, where Native Americans honor the animal with prayers and respect, seeing the Buffalo as a brother.


Previous
Previous

VIDEO: Bringing the Buffalo Home: The Climate Smart Program and Tanka Fund

Next
Next

VIDEO: Arnell D. Abold on the connection of Tanka Fund, its people and the Buffalo