LNI and Powwow on hold Whether to continue or cancel events depends on Pandemic

Red Cloud Indian School Boys basketball team against Cheyenne Eagle Butte Braves (Courtesy Photo)

Events that normally take place annually in Rapid City and the Black Hills have joined the evolving conversation of whether or not to host patrons this year.
The Lakota Nation Invitational organizers are keeping a close eye on the pandemic even though the tournament takes place annually in December. “The board has not taken any action,” said Bryan Brewer, President of the LNI board. “We figure that if the schools are starting in the fall, then we will have our tournament. But we are just watching right now.”
The Black Hills Powwow that takes place each October on Native American Day is also watching the pandemic, but President Stephen Yellow Hawk declined to comment at this time due to the evolving nature of the situation.
On the national level, the Santa Fe Indian Market, an almost 100 year old event, is hosting their events online this year. An official statement on the Market’s website states that “We are overjoyed to report that we are building something incredibly exciting that is based on a significant collaboration aimed at providing opportunities for Native American artists to showcase and sell their artwork amid the Coronavirus pandemic.” The statement goes onto say that the introduction of the online market will help build necessary capacity for the next 100 years
The fate of the 80th Sturgis Motor Cycle Rally is to be decided by the Sturgis City Council on June 15. The council plans to have conversations with Black Hills businesses, chambers, cities, sponsors and government entities from the State to Federal level. The city of Sturgis anticipates losing up to 1.7 million dollars if the Rally does not proceed. Last year the city reported $655,090,000 in direct spending from visitors.
Tensions have been rising on social media whether or not to hold the Rally while Rapid City Mayor Steve Allender pushes residents and businesses to welcome visitors.
Mount Rushmore has begun a phased reopening process during Memorial Day Weekend. The Lincoln Borglum Visitors Center and Sculptor’s Studio are closed to the public, but outdoor trails and viewing areas are open for use.
Devils Tower reopened park roads, trails, rock climbing, and the picnic area on May 22 as well, but the visitor’s center and campground will remain closed.
Native Sun News Today will keep everyone updated on any changes.

(Contact Travis at travisldewes@gmail.com)

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