High Plains American Indian Research Institute (HPAIRI)

Our project, Understanding and Communicating the Role of the Elk on the Wind River Reservation, is about learning – acquiring and sharing ancient tribal knowledge that has important implications for today.  

There is much that outsiders can learn from the respectful relationship of the Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho people and the Elk. The Eastern Shoshone and Northern Arapaho are the two major American Indian tribes who make their homes on the Wind River Reservation in Central Wyoming.   It is little known, outside the Reservation, that the Elk is a significant part of the historical and present cultures of both Tribes.  The elk provide sustenance, shelter, tools, and clothing to the people.  The Elk also contributes to beliefs, stories, song, and art.  An old man told us, “The elk talks to us and we need to remember how to listen.”  The gift you give here will make people aware and remind them to listen.

We hope you will join our team in donating a gift to the HPAIRI, NEH project, Understanding and Communicating the Role of the Elk on the Wind River Reservation.  Any amount will help us provide teachers and students the authentic, tribally created, curriculum and materials they need to meet the 2017 Wyoming Indian Education for All legislation.

We are seeking vital support for this, Year 3, of Understanding and Communicating the Role of the Elk.  This year, our staff will work with students and teachers of the Northern Arapaho and Eastern Shoshone tribes.  Together, we will create instructional modules for use by the teachers and students of all Wyoming school district.