Help Fund the Spotted Elk Family's Important Trip to the Tribal Council Meeting
Dear Community and Friends,
We request your support for the Spotted Elk family, essential in preserving the cultural heritage linked to Calvin and Lily’s ancestor, Chief Spotted Elk/Big Foot. They need to travel to Pine Ridge, before the end of this month, to South Dakota, to present important documents and engage directly with the tribal council. This meeting is essential for discussions about their direct lineage, the tragic events at Wounded Knee in 1890, and the stewardship of sacred items that have been returned to the tribe.
During their visit, the family also hopes to view the sacred belongings that were recently returned to the tribe. Unfortunately, during the last trip, two years ago, they were not permitted to see these items. They are hopeful that this time, the Fifth Member’s office will facilitate a viewing for them and their extended family, as there have been discussions about burning them. Calvin wishes to put in a claim to his grandfathers’ known belongings that were finally returned from the museum after over 132 years. He has been asking for this since the mid 1980's but his grandfather's lock of hair was unfortunately destroyed. He wants to prevent this from happening again, to anyone.
The tribal council meetings are set for the last week of April. Regrettably, the tribe is unable to fund the travel expenses, and the family faces a substantial journey from Central California to Pine Ridge.
We are estimating the total airfare, rental car, hotel accommodations for 1 week, fuel, and miscellaneous expenses for the family to be between $2000 and $2500. This trip is about more than just attending meetings; it's about actively participating in crucial cultural and historical discussions and ensuring the preservation of their heritage.
How You Can Help:
Online Donations: Please donate through DonorBox with accepts major credit cards and Apple and Google Pay.
Zelle Transfers: Contributions can be sent to calvinspottedelk @ gmail.com
Share with those who will support Cultural and Historical Preservation
We deeply appreciate every donation, as it helps cover the essential travel and accommodation costs, enabling the Spotted Elk family to fulfill significant responsibilities. We have estimated costs on the slightly higher side to prevent any shortfalls that might impede the mission. Any funds raised beyond these expenses will support ongoing research subscriptions for other descendants, an endeavor they currently undertake on a volunteer basis.
Please Share: We urge you to share this campaign within your networks and on social media to help us reach our goal. Your support not only assists the Spotted Elk family but also helps maintain understanding of his important role, as a leader and treaty signer in Lakota tribal history.
Thank you for considering this urgent request. Your support during this critical time is invaluable.
Warmest regards,
Calvin Spotted Elk
P.S. For any inquiries or more information, please feel free to contact us.