Native American Day Celebrations Held in Sioux Falls
Sioux Falls, S.D. – Celebrations took place throughout downtown Sioux Falls today, October 13, 2025, honoring Native American Day with a prayerful start and a vibrant parade showcasing the strength and joy within South Dakota’s Native American communities.
The day began with an early morning prayer at Lyon Park, honoring ancestors and acknowledging past struggles, followed by a song for the parade’s Grand Marshall. The parade itself has grown significantly in recent years, aiming to foster community and mutual respect. “The main thing that we are gearing towards is community, and you know, Native Americans are very communal people,” said Shaina Yellowback, a member of the parade committee. “We get that medicine just by being around each other, just being a community and being able to celebrate.” Organizers noted the celebration could even be heard by incarcerated individuals at the State Penitentiary.
Participants included groups representing diverse Indigenous cultures, highlighting a broader sense of shared heritage. Juan Reyes, representing 4 Lunas Botanicas, explained their participation: “The reason we want to do this is because we want to connect with people and also honor our ancestors. Although we might be a different nationalities, we’re also indigenous.” This event underscores the ongoing efforts to recognize and celebrate the contributions of Indigenous peoples, a population facing disproportionate challenges in areas like socioeconomic indicators.
Maria Standingcloud, a member of Church on the Street, emphasized the importance of unity and support, stating, “It’s a good day to be Indigenous every day. I just believe in coming together, and prayer, and supporting, and encouraging each other.” The event served as a platform for visibility and advocacy, with many participants expressing a desire to secure a lasting legacy for future generations. You can learn more about Native American Studies in South Dakota here.
Organizers plan to continue expanding the event next year, hoping to further strengthen community bonds and promote understanding.
