Lakota Star Quilt Becomes Expression of Gratitude at St. Joseph’s Powwow

On September 21, 2024, St. Joseph’s Indian School hosted its 48^th Annual Wačhípi (Powwow). Seven drum groups participated, and close to ­­­­­200 of the school’s benefactors from around the world were on hand for the celebration.

One alum chose the day to express her gratitude for the donors’ support of the school in a traditional Native American way – presenting a star quilt to one of the donors in attendance. St. Joseph’s Indian School today and since its inception in 1927 has been funded by private benefactors whose generosity completely funds the education and services provided to the students who attend. 

Danisha Cutt, who attended the school from 2002 to 2012, worked with her family to create a beautiful star quilt. With the school’s Development and Alumni Departments, she selected a donor to receive the quilt. “I wanted to give back,” Cutt explained.  “I wanted to give back,” Cutt explained. “I went through a rough spot,” she related, “but I have been sober for two years. St. Joseph’s was always there for me.” The star quilt sums up the Lakota expression, “Mitákuye oyá’siŋ,” all my relatives, its many pieces collectively supporting one beautiful design. It speaks to the universe of relationships expressed in Cutt’s gesture.

Like the quilt, St. Joseph’s is a family thing for Cutt. Her sisters and brother-in-law attended the school. “And, I gave this place 11 years to prepare for another Cutt,” she laughed as she told that her son, Dominic, started first grade there this year.

Herb Rhees, a donor for 50 years from Princeton, Ill., was selected to win the quilt. He said, “It is the most beautiful star quilt I have ever seen. I treasure it and always will. Most of all it comes from the place and people that I love and treasure very much.” He added, “What a truly wonderful gift you are giving to so many beautiful and deserving Lakota children on behalf of God who made and loves us all.”  

Powwow Meaning – A Native American Ceremony for Singing, Dancing and Feasting

Winds over 20 miles per hour lifted the beat of the drum, the jingling of dresses and the joyous greetings into the air, spreading the sounds of the celebration. Powwow is about connections to tradition, spirituality, Uŋčí Makhá (Grandmother Earth) and all humanity. Moreover, it was an experience of the students’ culture, which St. Joseph’s Indian School dedicates itself to supporting. One-hundred-nineteen St. Joseph’s students danced in the event, which drew more than 65 additional youth from the surrounding area to compete. Thirty-five teens modeled leadership through their participation.

Adding to the festive feel of the wačhípi was a record attendance of 89 of the school’s alums who came to campus from all across South Dakota for the celebration. The oldest alum in attendance was 82. Hugs, reconnection and laughter filled the powwow grounds. Indian tacos were available for sale throughout the day and more than 640 persons attended the traditional dinner prior to the awards presentation.

 Powwow Dance Competition Results:

The wačhípi is an annual event, free and open to the public with handicap accessibility. For more information and a schedule of events for next year’s wačhípi, please contact St. Joseph’s Indian School at 605-234-3313 or visit www.stjo.org/powwow.