Generations Indigenous Ways is an affiliate of the Seventh Generation Fund for Indigenous Peoples Inc. It is organization dedicated to empowering the Lakota youth with knowledge of the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) education while incorporating the Lakota Culture through the Indigenous Sciences. It was founded in March of 2013 on the Pine ridge Reservation in SD. We are
currently located near the community of Lost Dog, SD on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation, the Oglala Band of the Seven Council Fires, in South Dakota. We service the Native American students from the large land base of the seven council fires, which covers the state of South Dakota. The organization’s major focus is, but not limited to, the Lakota Oyate(people) of the Pine Ridge Reservation. We welcome participation to all students of all backgrounds, welcoming all who are interested in STEM educational activities. Generations Indigenous Ways offers an after-school K-12th grade Indigenous Science curriculum that incorporates Lakota Culture and Western Sciences. This curriculum is derived from a Medicine Wheel Model that was established by the successful outcomes of the Native Science Field Centers. GIW offers seasonal programming that includes informal science seminars and youth science camps that are integrated with the Lakota culture. There has been a sustainable food initiative that serves the communities on the people on the Pine Ridge Reservation. Through the sustainable food initiative, Generations Indigenous Ways has been able to provide the communities on the east side of the Pine Ridge Reservation with basic gardening courses. The staff volunteers and presenters of the organization are Earth Scientists, Conservational Biologists, Engineers, Lakota Experts and Artists from across Lakota country; bringing all of their different expertise together to build successful Indigenous Science education. Informal Science Seminars are offered for communities and schools throughout the year. These Informal Science Seminars give insight to environmental issues that impact the land and waters, as well as Lakota Culture sustainability.
