Youth make connection with Spirit on 24th Annual Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run

LAME DEER, Mont. – In a time of climate change and rising global tension, it is important that we counter the growing uncertainty by grounding ourselves and fostering authentic connection with one another and the earth. Now more than ever, we need to take the necessary steps to get back to the basics of uplifting humanity. Our young people, especially, are desperate for guidance and direction.
Starting on January 9, more than 90 Northern Cheyenne youth will take steps – literally – to re-center their spirits and reconnect with who they are. The 24th Annual Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run honors the historical Cheyenne Outbreak of 1879, which was a pivotal event in the federal recognition process of today’s reservation.
The six-day, 400mi relay style run sweeps across the plains of Nebraska and winds through the Black Hills of South Dakota despite frigid temperatures. Runners are supported by our Oglala Lakota relatives along the way and will complete their journey in Busby, Montana on January 14. Seven elders and 30 chaperones will accompany the youth and offer oral histories, life stories, encouragement, wisdom, and prayer. This event grounds them in who they are by promoting the tenants of identity, land, language, and culture.
Native American communities across the country are plagued with statistics as a result of historical trauma; Native youth experience the highest rates of suicide; and the pervasive issue of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women hits our homes and hearts. Recognizing our shared history is important, but this event is more than that. It’s about surrounding the youth in love and prayer to facilitate healing and wellness. The youth return home as leaders, revitalized and empowered – and this is exactly what our young people need.
“Considering everything going on in society and the world right now, it is crucial that the youth have a way to build their self-esteem and self-acceptance,” said Executive Director, Lynette Two Bulls. “Diversity creates unity. We need to come together, but not like a melting pot. We all need to learn how to respect ourselves and each other’s identity, cultures, languages, and differences. When we learn to do that, we can come together in true unity. That’s what this run is about.”
Yellow Bird is a non-profit organization founded by Phillip Whiteman Jr. (Northern Cheyenne Traditional Chief) and Lynette Two Bulls (Oglala Lakota), located on the beautiful Northern Cheyenne Homelands in Southeastern Montana. Youth and elders are at the core of our organization because they represent the future and the wisdom needed to carry on. Yellow Bird was founded on the traditional principles of “reciprocity” and “giving back” to our community. Now, after 20 years of youth programming, Yellow Bird has grown to include Youth Leadership & Empowerment, Arts & Culture, Food Sovereignty, Wellness, Social Justice, Environmental Justice, and Community Empowerment and Development.

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