This presentation discusses the relationship between Lakota culture and stewardship of the land. Most Native Americans have a deep connection to the natural world. The Lakota spiritual principle of “Mitakuye Oyasin” or “All my Relations” means we are all connected to each other, to all species of animals and plants, and all life – including Mother Earth and Father Sky. The program explores why more understanding of Lakota culture and spiritual beliefs might help us all open ourselves to new thinking about how to become better stewards of our beautiful planet Earth.

Mary M. Hines is the author of “Who Cries for Mother Earth,” and is a writer and poet who has won numerous awards including an Independent Publisher Book Award in Visionary Fiction, a Next Generation Indie Book Award, and a National Telly Award. Hines grew up in the Black Hills of South Dakota, and her ancestry and writing are based on the Lakota ways as were gratefully taught to her by a Medicine Man from the Sicangu Lakota tribe. Her purpose in writing and speaking is to help conservation efforts to save Mother Earth. Previously she’s worked as a copywriter and advertising executive. Hines currently serves on the John G. Neihardt Board of Directors. She has served on the Boards of the American Federation of Advertising, American Women in Radio and TV, and was President of the Board of Directors of ICAN.