Thursday, March 22nd

A Tour of the Badlands with indigenous scientist Helene Gaddie

Today we began by visiting the Badlands, with Helene Gaddie, a Lakota scientist. She gave us a personal tour of numerous sites throughout the National Park, and gave some insight as to how they have evolved. On our way there, we spotted some prairie dogs, an animal that we thought resembled a meerkat, and native to the Plains. We then enjoyed a picnic lunch with our friends from the Anpo Wichapi school. While in the Badlands, we were able to explore the “Doors and Windows” (look it up!!). To us, walking on the land felt like walking on the moon. Before we parted ways, we visited the site that was part of the escape route taken by the Lakota people, that led to the Wounded Knee Massacre shortly after. Our final destination was the Crazy Horse Monument, and we even saw some bison and mountain goats on the way. We toured the Crazy Horse museum, and viewed the monument from a distance, due to the fact that it is a work in progress. The night concluded with dinner at the Alex Johnson Hotel, and WE exchanged good dialogue regarding our entire visit, and finally brainstormed how we could bring a piece of the trip back to our schools. We hope this is not the end, but the beginning of future endeavors among the Agnes Irwin School, the Nightingale Bamford School and the Anpo Wichapi School. Overall, this trip has been an eye opening and inspiring experience for one and all.