The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation stands as a testament to resilience, cultural preservation, and the enduring spirit of the Lakota people. This federally recognized sovereign nation maintains a government-to-government relationship with the United States, a relationship rooted in treaties, historical interactions, and the ongoing pursuit of self-determination. The Tribe’s formal establishment under the Indian Reorganization Act (IRA) of June 18, 1934, marked a significant step in its modern governance and its efforts to revitalize its community.
Identity and Nomenclature
The official name, Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation, clearly identifies the Tribe’s location and its affiliation with the larger Sioux Nation. The traditional name, Kul Wicasa Oyate, translates to "lower men nation," reflecting their geographical position relative to other bands within the Sicangu (Brule) division of the Lakota.
The term "Brule," commonly used to refer to the Tribe, originates from the French word brûlé, meaning "burnt." This name was applied to the Sicangu by French fur traders in the late 17th century, likely due to their practice of burning the prairie to manage bison herds. In the late 18th century, the Sicangu further divided into the Lower Brule and the Heyata Wicasa, or Upper Brule. The Lower Brule favored the area where the White River converges with the Missouri River, while the Upper Brule moved further south and west.
While "Lakota" is often translated as "friend" or "ally," a more accurate definition is "those who consider themselves kindred," encompassing a deeper sense of kinship and shared identity among the Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota peoples.
Geography and Territory
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation calls central South Dakota home, specifically the western edge of the Missouri River. Their reservation, established through treaties with the U.S. government, encompasses approximately 132,601 acres. This land, though a fraction of their ancestral territory, remains a vital connection to their history, culture, and way of life. The landscape is characterized by rolling plains, river bottoms, and the ever-present influence of the Missouri River.
The Lower Brule Reservation is located in the Central Time Zone, and its tribal headquarters are situated in the community of Lower Brule, South Dakota. The reservation’s geography plays a crucial role in the Tribe’s economy, culture, and environmental stewardship efforts.
Historical Overview and Treaties
As part of the Great Sioux Nation, the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe has a rich and complex history marked by both cooperation and conflict with the United States. The Tribe entered into treaties with the federal government in 1824, 1851, 1865, and 1868. These treaties, while often fraught with broken promises and unjust terms, form the legal basis for the Tribe’s sovereignty, land rights, and its government-to-government relationship with the U.S.
These treaties sought to define boundaries, establish peace, and recognize the rights of the Tribe. However, the encroachment of settlers, the depletion of natural resources, and the government’s assimilation policies led to significant challenges and hardships for the Lower Brule people.
Governance and Political Structure
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation operates under a constitution ratified on July 11, 1936, with subsequent amendments in 1974 and 1986. The Tribe’s governing body is the Lower Brule Sioux Tribal Council, which consists of three council members and four executive officers: the Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Treasurer, and Secretary.
The Tribe’s charter was established under the provisions of the IRA of 1934 and approved on October 5, 1935. The Tribal Council is responsible for enacting laws, managing tribal resources, and representing the Tribe in its interactions with other governments and entities.
Elections are conducted "At-Large," meaning that all representatives are voted on by the entire tribal membership rather than by districts. All representatives serve two-year terms, and elections are not staggered, ensuring that all positions are up for election simultaneously. Tribal meetings are typically held on the first Wednesday of each month, providing a forum for community members to participate in the Tribe’s governance.
The Tribe has contracted several aspects of self-government under the 1975 Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act (PL 93-638), allowing them greater control over programs and services that directly impact their community.
Demographics and Enrollment
As of 2010, the registered population of the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation was 1,308 enrolled tribal members living on the reservation. Tribal enrollment requirements are determined by the Tribe itself, reflecting its inherent right to define its own membership.
Language and Culture
The traditional language of the Lower Brule Sioux is Lakota, classified within the Siouan-Catawban language family. Language preservation and revitalization efforts are crucial for maintaining cultural identity and passing down ancestral knowledge to future generations.
The Tribe’s culture is rich in traditions, ceremonies, and oral histories. The Sun Dance, Sweat Lodge, and Vision Quest are significant ceremonies that continue to be practiced today. Oral stories and legends, passed down through generations, provide insights into the Tribe’s history, values, and spiritual beliefs.
Economy and Infrastructure
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation has made significant strides in developing its economy and infrastructure. Major employers on the reservation include the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe itself, the Golden Buffalo Casino, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, and the Indian Health Service.
The Lower Brule Farm Corp. has achieved national recognition as a leading popcorn producer, showcasing the Tribe’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to agricultural development. The Golden Buffalo Casino offers employment opportunities and generates revenue that supports tribal programs and services.
In 1963, the completion of the Big Bend dam on the Missouri River had a devastating impact on the Lower Brule community. The flooding caused by the dam inundated miles of roadways, destroyed fertile farmland, and decimated native trees, shrubs, and medicinal plants. In response, the federal government established the Lower Brule Infrastructure Development Trust Fund Act in 1997 to compensate the Tribe for the lands lost nearly 50 years earlier. The Tribe established the Infrastructure Development Authority to oversee the Trust Fund and recommend actions to the Tribal Council.
Education and Media
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe places a strong emphasis on education. The Lower Brule Community College provides higher education opportunities for tribal members and residents of the surrounding area. St. Joseph’s Indian School in Chamberlain, South Dakota, also serves students from the Lower Brule Reservation.
Modern Day Attractions
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation extends a warm welcome to visitors interested in learning about their culture and history. The Golden Buffalo Casino offers entertainment and gaming opportunities. The Buffalo Interpretive Center provides insights into the history and significance of the buffalo to the Lakota people. The Akta Lakota Museum & Cultural Center in Chamberlain, South Dakota, offers a comprehensive collection of Lakota art and artifacts. Hunting and fishing opportunities are available on the reservation, providing a chance to experience the natural beauty of the land.
Notable Figures
Chief Iron Nation (1815-1894) led the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe through some of its most challenging years. He signed the treaty to establish the Great Sioux Reservation in 1868.
Sinte Gleska (Spotted Tail) (ca. 1823-1881) was a Brule Sioux leader who became one of the most important individuals in the Northern Plains.
A Continuing Legacy
The Lower Brule Sioux Tribe of the Lower Brule Reservation continues to navigate the complexities of the 21st century while honoring its rich cultural heritage. The Tribe’s commitment to self-determination, economic development, and cultural preservation ensures that the spirit of the Lakota people will endure for generations to come.