The Oceti Sakowin

Participating in this monumental project are 7 Tribes of the Great Sioux Nation that share territory with North and South Dakota. With a rich history as allies for centuries, these Tribes are once again coming together to bring clean energy to the masses and to promote energy independence.

This inter-tribal cooperation has deep roots in the heritage of the Oceti Sakowin (Oceti Ŝakowiƞ, pronounced O-chet-EE Sha-KO-wee), an alliance of seven bands of Oyate (People or Nation) speaking three different dialects Lakota, Nakota and Dakota. The seven bands would gather each summer to hold council, renew kinships, decide tribal matters and participate in sacred ceremonies, hence the name Oceti Sakowin, or “Seven Council Fires.” Collectively they are also known as the Great Sioux Nation.