Life Lakota captures the state of the Cheyenne River Sioux Reservation in South Dakota. The Lakota culture is fading and their voices must be heard. Local leaders are taking action to educate the youth while organizations like the Sioux YMCA are helping kids stay above the influence of many of the extreme adversities that the reservation presents them. Lakota people are humble, proud, and full of faith. It’s up to the 7th Generation to keep the Lakota language alive.

You can see good in everything. And, I really wish the world would just stop the negativity and start seeing the good and change their mindset about a lot of things.

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There is always a light, always a light. You just have to choose to see it.”

—Irona Howe, Lakota Native – Community Leader

Over-The-Rhine International Film Festival – Grand Jury’s Short Documentary WINNER

Produced by Vativ Media in association with Lost Traveler Films.

IMPORTANT NOTE: Producers apologize to Orville Mestes (Soldier Bear) of the Lakota Nation for misrepresenting his name. They share love and respect to Orville Mestes (Soldier Bear) and the Lakota people.

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Take Kindly as the council of the Earth, gracefully surrounding the things of youth.

Nurture strength of spirit to shield you in sudden misfortunes but do not distress yourself with imaginings.

Many fears are born in fatigue and loneliness beyond the wholesome discipline.

Be gentle with yourself.

You are a child of the Universe, no less than the trees and the stars.

You have a right to be here.

And whether or not it’s clear to you, no doubt the Universe is unfolding as it should.

Be at peace with God, whatever you conceive Him to be.

And whatever your labors, and aspirations, in the noisy confusion of life, keep peace with your soul, with all the sham, drudgery, and broken dreams.

It is still a beautiful world.

Be cheerful, and strive to be happy.

—Orville Mestes (Soldier Bear), Lakota Elder – Cultural Leader

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