‘Honoring one of our own’

CHAMBERLAIN – A gathering in Chamberlain, South Dakota, on September 13 and 14, celebrated the remarkable achievements of ten individuals from diverse backgrounds who were inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. This inspiring event highlighted their stories of resilience, ingenuity, passion, and vision, showcasing how each inductee made significant contributions to their communities and beyond.

The Class of 2024 inductees include: Brian Akipa (Agency Village); Jim Entenman (Sioux Falls); Jeff Hazard (Sioux Falls); Hugh Engalls (Sturgis); Arlouine Gay Kingman (Rapid City); Jan Manolis (Huron); Judith Knittel Meierhenry (Sioux Falls); Dr. Peggy Gordon Miller (Brookings); Greg Sands (Sioux Falls); Dean Sorenson (Sioux Falls).

Each of these individuals brings unique talents and experiences that reflect the rich tapestry of South Dakota’s culture and community spirit. Their stories of hard work, dedication, and impact offer inspiration to all, and their legacies will undoubtedly resonate within the state for years to come.

Among the inductees was one of our own, Arlouine Gay Kingman, a proud member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe who has tirelessly advocated for the rights of Indigenous people not only on the Northern Plains but also at the National level.

Kingman, a champion of Tribal sovereignty, stood before an audience of fellow inductees and their families and spoke eloquently about her leadership role in Indian Education, Indian Governance, Indian Gaming and most recently her role as the Executive Director of Great Plains Tribal Chairmen’s Association.

Kingman, recognized for her humble demeanor, spoke eloquently about this latest honor as an Inductee into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. During her remarks, she reflected on the importance of community and collaboration, acknowledging the support of those around her who have contributed to her journey. Kingman emphasized that this accolade is not just a personal achievement, but a recognition of the collective efforts of many individuals who share a commitment to making a difference in Indian Country.

“It’s a pleasure to be here, of course, because I didn’t know about the South Dakota Hall of Fame until all of this started happening,” said Kingman, who was nominated by Hani Shafai, CEO of Dream Design International, a real estate development and management firm in Rapid City. “And I tell you, I’m really impressed. I really believe that what the Hall of Fame is doing in honoring our people and telling their stories is valuable for our people and for our future generations.”

As she recounted the teachings of her ancestors, Kingman emphasized the seven rites of the Great Sioux Nation, fortitude, compassion, respect, and wisdom. Kingman recognized that these values extend beyond her own heritage, observing that the spirit of fortitude, compassion, respect, and wisdom are also embodied in the stories and achievements of all the Inductees.

Reflecting on her upbringing at the Old Cheyenne Agency, she recounted, “I was blessed because I had really good parents and grew up in my in my culture, my home and with my tribe, the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe.”

Kingman shared heartfelt reflections on her upbringing, reminiscing about the sense of community and safety that defined her childhood. “But those of us that grew up there, it was once home, and the environment that we grew up in, was once home,” she noted, expressing nostalgia for a time when the community thrived together. She emphasized the saying, “It takes a village to raise a child in good health,” highlighting how everyone worked together to support one another without fear of violence or threats—a stark contrast to some of the challenges faced today.

“I was blessed. It was really a good environment to grow up in,” she continued, recalling the teachings she received about giving back and resilience. Kingman remarked, “Whatever comes your way, you handle it.” This philosophy has been a cornerstone of her life, guiding her through both joyful and challenging experiences.

With a deep respect for her Lakota teachings, she reiterated that these values instilled in her as a child continue to resonate. “You do it,” she affirmed, underscoring the importance of living by the principles of compassion, responsibility, and community support that have shaped her journey and those of her ancestors. Her words not only celebrate her heritage but also serve as an encouragement for others to embrace these timeless values in their own lives.

Kingman also lamented the significant changes that have occurred over time, particularly noting that the old Cheyenne Agency, once located right along the banks of the Missouri River, is now submerged beneath 90 feet of water due to the construction of the Oahe Dam. This loss serves as a poignant reminder of the historical challenges faced by her community and the lasting impact that such developments have on the land and heritage of Indigenous peoples.

With warmth, she spoke of her family, “I have two sons, one who graduated from Georgetown University Law School, an attorney, prosecutor, and my other son has his MBA and works in finance and consulting with tribes. I have eight grandchildren and I have great grandchildren.”

The importance of family resonated in her next statement, “The family is everything. Every time I do something, I think of the family.” She highlighted the importance of passing down Lakota values to the next generation, stating, “We are in turn trying to teach these values that we were raised with.”

Kingman then expressed her deep appreciation to the South Dakota Hall of Fame and the important work they are doing, saying, “I have a lot of appreciation to the South Dakota Hall of Fame for what they’re doing here.” She took a moment to thank Hani Shafai for facilitating her induction, highlighting the unexpected journey it has been for her to understand the significance of the Hall of Fame. “To see what all of this is about, I did not know, and so I will continue to advocate for the South Dakota Hall of Fame because I think it’s really a good thing that’s happening here.”

Reflecting on the conversations of the evening, Kingman shared a poignant observation from her father, Gus Kingman, who often said, “There are many good people walking among us that we don’t know.” She noted that, in today’s fast-paced world, people often lack the time to engage in meaningful conversations and learn from one another. “It seems like today, in our busy world, we don’t have time to talk, to talk to people and learn.”

Addressing her role as the Executive Director of the Great Plains Tribal Chairman’s Association, she said, “There are 16 tribes we work with across North Dakota, South Dakota, and Nebraska. Each tribe has unique challenges, but we unite to find solutions. It’s a collaborative effort—a strong network of tribal leaders supporting one another. And tonight, as I accept this honor, I do it on behalf of all our tribal leaders who carry the weight of their people on their shoulders.”

The audience erupted in applause, recognizing both the weight of her words and the spirit behind them. As she concluded, her smile radiated hope, “The speakers present have shared their experiences and the journeys they’ve endured, providing insight into their stories. Many of these experiences reflect the teachings central to their way of life and spirituality, which include fortitude—knowing how to persevere through challenges—as well as compassion for others, respect, and the importance of sharing wisdom. The individuals who spoke tonight exemplify these qualities, demonstrating the values that define their community and will continue to inspire future generations. Thank you very much.”

The applause soared, resonating not just as an acknowledgment of her achievements, but as a commitment to advancing the narrative of Native people in South Dakota and beyond for generations to come.

(Contact Ernestine Anunkasan Hopa at editor@nativesunnews.today)

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