Tim Giago’s Memorial was a service to remember

RAPID CITY – You could not have asked for a more beautiful day for a special occasion memorializing the late, great Timothy Antoine Giago II. It has been one year since Native Sun News Today lost its beloved leader. A leading Editor and Publisher for over forty years producing four different Native American newspapers during his life span.

Tim Giago has left a giant mark on Indian Country. His truth-biting editorials that had educated the masses on the plight of Native people will leave an impact on generations to come. Dedicated to his craft he never truly retired because his soul stayed stirred to get out the message of his people. You can never retire knowing that your fellow Lakota brother or sister has a voice that needs to be heard.

In 1992, he was featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show along with other Native American leaders to discuss Racism. In which he brought to light how Native Americans were used as sports mascots and used his columns to make that change, challenging team owners to change their names.

Soon other Indian nations like the Oneidas joined in protesting outside sports stadiums. Tim educated the public by erasing misguided thinking. Thinking such as all Natives get free housing and do not pay any taxes. He informed his readers that health care and education are what Natives received for succeeding millions of acres of land and signing treaties with the United States government to preserve them.

Tim is in his resting place and his staff and family wanted to retain his legacy and honor him in a memorial service. Looking around the room upon entering one would have difficulty finding a seat for the service. You would notice people from across the country as they signed the register. 

Reverend Elton Yellow Boy Sr. initially led the service instructing the crowd of how he had gotten to know Mr. Giago. Meanwhile, the sounds of drums echoed in the room as Wambli Ska Drum group sang honoring songs. Their music inspired the audience as guest Panzy Hawk Wing and Ernestine Anunkasan Hopa encouraged everyone to join in on a Round Dance. A dance that created  immediate unity within the entire group. Shortly afterwards a traditional feed had taken place hosted by the Giago daughters. To everyone’s surprise Indian Tacos were served with beef stew. It must have been great soup because some guests had  by passed using their spoon and drank directly from their bowls. As more guests arrived, it was time for the traditional giveaway. Christy Tibbits was first to be honored as she worked for Tim as a Business Manager for over twenty years. Throughout the years Christy had worked as an Accountant keeping the billing and payroll department running efficiently.

Tim and Jackie’s faithful staff comprising of Yolanda Thompson, Ernestine Anunkasan Hopa and Kirk Dickerson were honored with traditional star quilts decorated around their shoulders.  Long time friends were also honored. Phil Baird of Sinte Gleska University out of Mission, SD. traveled to be on hand for the event. He was awarded one of Tim’s prize possessions, his bull riding hat that he wore in most of his pictures. Ironically, Phil had a hat already that kind of looked like Tims’ but was additionally blessed with a special hat carrying case.

Return of the Black Hills advocate Attorney Mario Gonzales was on hand to receive a gift as well. Mario has worked with Tim and the Oglala Sioux Tribe in various matters over the years.

In addition, Native American Women Journalists were in attendance and honored. Jodi Rave, Delphine Red Shirt and Talli Neuman along with Ernestine Anunkasan Hopa each told their stories of their life in the field of journalism with experiences and mentorships they received from the guest of honor Tim Giago.

All in all, it was an afternoon to remember with friends, family and well-wishers gathered to remember the man who gave the State of South Dakota Native American Day and forced sports teams through his columns to change their mascots and logos that Native Americans found offensive. “Standing up for them,” an Indian name given to him as a boy, proved to be prophetic in every way.

 

The post Tim Giago’s Memorial was a service to remember first appeared on Native Sun News Today.

Visit Original Source