Lakota in United States
Photo Source:
Renee Parker
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| People Name: | Lakota |
| Country: | United States |
| 10/40 Window: | No |
| Population: | 55,000 |
| World Population: | 57,700 |
| Primary Language: | Lakota |
| Primary Religion: | Christianity |
| Christian Adherents: | 60.00 % |
| Evangelicals: | 1.50 % |
| Scripture: | Portions |
| Ministry Resources: | Yes |
| Jesus Film: | No |
| Audio Recordings: | Yes |
| People Cluster: | North American Indigenous |
| Affinity Bloc: | North American Peoples |
| Progress Level: |
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Introduction / History
The Lakota (AKA Sioux) have the distinction of being the last tribe subdued by the United States in 1890. Most live on five reservations located in the north-central US. A smaller number live further north in Canada. Their homeland includes the extensive Black Hills, which they regard as sacred. For this reason, they strongly object to mining efforts and having the images of four American presidents on Mt. Rushmore. There is a controversy among them as to whether or not to honor agreements made with the US government.
What Are Their Lives Like?
On the reservations the Lakota people often live in dilapidated mobile homes without running water or heating. Some children do not attend school.
There is forced assimilation. Lakota people feel like their culture is being taken from them. There is a general sense of hopelessness that is holding them back. Part of this comes from being taught “self-hate” as one of them puts it.
What Are Their Beliefs?
The Lakota have their own traditional religious practices, but more than half are now Christian.
What Are Their Needs?
There are many serious issues being faced by the Lakota people on both sides of the border. About 80 percent of their adults are addicted to drugs or alcohol. This has resulted in many children being raised by grandparents or by the oldest daughter in the family.
Prayer Points
Pray for Lakota people to find their sense of worth and dignity in Jesus Christ leading them to flourish as a community.
Pray for the Lord to raise up many Lakota people with the ability to develop honest businesses that will employ others and bless their community.
Pray for Lakota disciplers and evangelists.