06/25/2026
Today, NCAI commemorates the 150th anniversary of the Battle of Greasy Grass.
For the Oceti Sakowin, Northern Cheyenne, and Northern Arapaho, this battle was fought in unified defense of their families, homelands, cultures, and way of life. In the face of escalating threats to their freedom and sovereignty, these Nations stood together to protect their camp and the future of their people.
This history is also complex, and we recognize the Crow and Arikara Nations, whose people were also part of this moment in history during a time of immense pressure, conflict, and survival. As we remember the Battle of Greasy Grass, we hold space for the full history of this moment while honoring the strength, resilience, and sovereignty of all Tribal Nations whose histories are connected to it.
The events of June 25–26, 1876, remind us that Tribal Nations have always fought to preserve what matters most: the right to live as our ancestors taught us, raise our children in our cultures, steward our homelands, and exercise our inherent sovereignty.
One hundred fifty years later, we honor the courage, leadership, and sacrifice of those who stood in defense of their people. Their actions reflected a fundamental desire shared across generations: the right to be free and to live according to our own ways of life.
As we remember this anniversary, NCAI recognizes the strength found in unity among Tribal Nations and reaffirms the enduring spirit of Native peoples who continue to protect our languages, cultures, communities, and sovereignty for future generations.
We remember. We honor. We continue.
