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For the first time in four years, the Cheyenne River Youth Project welcomes young people back to the past Chocata wichoni (Life Center) Adolescent Center for one of the most popular programs. On Saturday, March 18, 2023 from 12pm to 6pm, attendees can join CRYP staff, special guests, family members and friends. Wačhípí kta IglúwiŋyeyapiIt means “youths prepare to dance”.
Commonly known as Passion for Fashion, this annual event was originally intended to provide young women with the essentials for that all-American rite of passage: the high school prom. While it still serves that purpose, the program is very much in the process of evolution.
“We are committed to helping our youth strengthen their connection to the Lakota culture and live it WalakotaJulie Garreau, executive director of CRYP, expressed in agreement with the sacred lifestyle of our people. “When our children come to Wačhípí kta Iglúwiŋyeyapi, they will certainly find the formal attire and accessories they need for prom – but they will also learn how to lean on our heritage, ancestors, stories and values to navigate the challenges they face in their own lives. They build relationships and learn how to accept each other, and themselves, Who are they for?
The theme of this year’s event is “Emergency,” and it resonates on many levels. For starters, this is the first in person Wačhípí kta Iglúwiŋyeyapi. Event from 2019; The 2020 event was canceled as Covid-19 took hold across the country, and the next two years will consist of car shows and private formal wear appointments.
“We’re on the way out of the epidemic, and we want our kids to know that we really see them,” Garreau said. “We respect their sacrifice and their perseverance, and it’s important to come together well so that they feel and understand that.”
CRYP staff are working on decorations that will turn Čhokata Wičhóni into a physical journey through sacred Lakota sites like a wind tunnel. The cave is the site of the Lakota emergence, part of the larger creation story of the people.
According to Gareau, the theme has another layer, and it’s close to the hearts of the entire CRYP team.
“We want to make it clear that two spirited young people are also welcome at Wačhípí kta Iglúwiŋyeyapi,” she said. “This is a safe and welcoming place for our young children to lean on their culture as they embrace who they are, share their stories, and work towards a future where they can be who they were always meant to be. A future where they grow up.
When the youth arrive at the CRYP campus, they will enjoy a lunch hosted by the youth project’s own Kea (Turtle) Cafe, some ice-breaker activities and a keynote address. From there, you head to the gym where you can choose and try on casual clothes and shoes, choose jewelry, and things like hair styling, makeup, and nail care.
Community ambassadors and volunteers will participate in the games, and family members of all ages are welcome to attend. The evening ends with a fashion show and bags full of goodies to take home.
“Each year, we are committed to providing our children with the prom experiences that all high school students in America should enjoy,” Gareau said. “But this program is more than that. We want to provide meaningful opportunities for our youth to learn from leaders and cultural leaders in our community, bond with family members, and form new friendships.
“It’s also about personal empowerment through positive body image, improved self-confidence and a deeper connection to our Lakota culture,” she continued. “That culture provides a solid foundation that will serve them well throughout their lives.”
For this year’s event, the youth project needs donations of new and gently used dresses and other formal wear, shoes, jewelry, hair accessories, makeup, toiletries, gift cards and cash. Staff and volunteers take any donated money and make additional purchases based on need. CRYP hopes to have all donations home by March 11th so staff will have a full week to prepare for the event.
Photo credit Cheyenne River Youth Project.
Photo credit Cheyenne River Youth Project.
Photo credit Cheyenne River Youth Project.
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