OYATE WOYAKA
Available Now on PBS Passport App!
The Lakota language is thousands of years old & originated from the wind, water, and animals of that region. Because of United States and church policies, including boarding schools, the language is on the verge of extinction. This will impact all of humanity because indigenous languages hold instructions to living in harmony with the natural world. Our film seeks to preserve, raise awareness and revitalize indigenous languages.
SUPPORT Language preservation
OYOTE WOYAKA has 501c3 fiscal sponsorship with Bluebird Cultural Initiative, whose mission is to provide meaningful programming to the community that enriches their understanding of the history and cultural traditions of Native American peoples of the Great Plains.
Donations will go directly to Language Preservation Outreach and Immersion Schools.
The Elders +
Bryant HighHorse
Duane Hollow Horn Bear
Dollie Red Elk
Ione Quigley
Sage Fast Dog
Leland Little Dog
Phil Two Eagle
Richard Moves Camp
Rick Two Dogs
Francis White Bird
Gail Spotted Tail
Ben Rhodd
About the filmmakers
Bryant High Horse (Lakota), Producer/Director
Bryant HighHorse Jr., "Oyate Tawanawuchapi tejupi" or "Defends People," belongs to the Pute Oyate of the Lakota. HighHorse Jr. identifies himself as a veteran and defender of American and Indian rights. He is also a relative of Crazy Horse. High Horse believes that racism comes from a lack of understanding about other cultures, stating, "If you do understand each other's cultures, you can have a beautiful journey together."
Urban travel and military service have provided him with a sense of the importance of journeys. Following his travels, he returned to South Dakota and began working in K-12 and higher education. High Horse has been described as a teacher, guidance counselor, KILI radio host, veteran and Lakota culture bearer. He has received a Master's degree and previously taught at Black Hills State University and in Rapid City, SD, for nineteen years. High Horse Jr. is currently an adjunct professor at Oglala Lakota College and he has no plans to retire from teaching.
George McAuliffe, Producer/Director
George has a 20 year career writing, directing and performing in critically acclaimed and award winning plays, films and television shows in Chicago and Los Angeles featured in The Sundance and South By Southwest Film Festivals. George is currently developing television shows with emmy winning documentary and television director, Judd Apatow in Los Angeles. Oyate Woyaka is a family project he is supporting by combining his expertise, empathy and craft to amplify the voices of his Lakota family members.
