resources: Podcast & Discussion Guide

Patty Bourdeaux interviews Sicangu Lakota writer Joseph Marshall about his book The Lakota Way and the Oceti Sakowin storytelling tradition in this #NativeReads episode of The Red Nation podcast. Bourdeaux also wrote a discussion guide for The Lakota Way, available to preview and download.

#NativeReads 2020: The Lakota Way

Author

Joseph Marshall III (Sicangu Lakota, enrolled Rosebud Sioux Tribe)

Book Summary

The Lakota Way is written in the oral storytelling style that is traditional to Oceti Sakowin. Traditional oral storytelling is handed down from one generation to the next to preserve the history and culture. This rich and beautiful technique is skillfully demonstrated throughout the narrative. The author weaves the story of his People as told to him by his grandparents through the 12 virtues that are the foundation of Oceti Sakowin cultural ways. These 12 virtues are Humility, Perseverance, Respect, Honor, Love, Sacrifice, Truth, Compassion, Bravery, Fortitude, Generosity and Wisdom. Each chapter gives an account of these virtues that are deeply rooted in Oceti Sakowin history and spirituality. These virtues define who the Oceti Sakowin Oyate are and connect the past to the future. The narrative speaks to the heart of a child to teach a lesson and, at the same time, speaks to the adult with deep wisdom.

The traditional values of the Oceti Sakowin Oyate are enduring life lessons that are relevant to the issues of current times. Each chapter of the The Lakota Way tells the story of the virtues by which the Oceti Sakowin leadership govern their people. These stories demonstrate how to live as a society with honor and respect. In the present day, society is in need of this kind of message that speaks about mutual respect as human beings. The Lakota Way gives voice to the value of who Indigenous people are, and the success of Native culture remaining intact calls for the 12 virtues that are embedded in Oceti Sakowin DNA. Following these 12 virtues creates a practical way of life that adds to the well-being of society.