In November 2024, the AIBL Chapter at Haskell Indian Nations University brought to life a vision that began with one powerful idea. As a club member, I, Angelina Giago, wanted to create an event to celebrate our traditions, showcase our strength, and inspire the HINU community. Over three days, we brought students, alumni, staff, and community members together for storytelling, competition, and teamwork. Here’s how we celebrated Native American Heritage Month through Traditional Games and a Women’s Tipi Raising Competition.
Friday evening started with a Tommaney Library presentation highlighting the historical and spiritual significance of “The Creator’s Game.” Jeremiah Moreno, a guest speaker brought to campus with the support of Manny King through the White Bear Grant, shared insights on spiritual healing through traditional games. Moreno, a Lakota language teacher at Central High School and Oglala Lakota College in South Dakota, has many years of experience playing the game and was once a coach for both a girls’ and boys’ youth team.
His words reminded everyone of the deeper meaning behind these practices, encouraging participants to view lacrosse as a sport and a sacred bond to our Creator and the Oyate (community). Saturday’s demonstration offered hands-on learning with lacrosse equipment provided by Mackie Moore. Students had a great time running around and playing mini scrimmages.
On Sunday, the day began early as I stood among the tipi poles at 7 a.m., wondering how everything would come together without a truck to move supplies. The morning felt daunting, but as the sun rose, so did the unwavering support of the Haskell community. Maintenance staff and Mr. Manny King stepped in to help, ensuring everything was in place. When the young women arrived to participate, the event was alive with energy!
Two teams of young women worked together, sharing techniques and stories from their tribes and communities. Their laughter and determination filled the air as they raised the tipi structures, honoring the teachings of our ancestors. It was a beautiful scene of unity and pride. Everyone had a good time taking pictures and gathering for prizes afterward.
I’m deeply grateful to everyone who contributed to the event’s success. Freda Gipp and Kelly Nalani shared words of wisdom that resonated deeply with participants. David Martinez and Julia Tso beautifully captured the day’s moments through their photography, preserving these memories for years. And Mackie Moore, whose support was invaluable throughout the weekend, provided some prizes for the competition, further encouraging our young women to engage. As well as my Mother, Toni Giago, for sending earrings for all the young women and judges in attendance. But let’s not forget Carrie Cornelius from the library, who stepped in with meals that kept everyone nourished throughout the weekend, and Former Miss Haskell AJ Holder, who graciously led the opening prayer with strength and sincerity. These acts of kindness and support are exactly what it means to have good relatives here at Haskell.
As the weekend ended, I couldn’t help but reflect on everything we accomplished. The Lacrosse Camp and Tipi Raising Contest weren’t just events but opportunities to reignite ancestral knowledge and foster connections between students, staff, and the broader community.
“I hope this becomes a yearly tradition,” I shared with participants and organizers. “We are constantly learning, re-learning, forgetting, failing, and succeeding — as long as we are trying.”
This three-day celebration of Native American Heritage Month showcased the power of community and the enduring strength of Indigenous traditions. With the help of individuals like Manny King, Jeremiah Moreno, Carrie Cornelius, and Mackie Moore, we created an unforgettable weekend filled with laughter, learning, and the spirit of togetherness. I am proud of what we achieved and excited to see how this tradition continues to grow in the years to come! Pilamaye ye (Thank You!)
