Yes, the Independent Lakota Nation is a representative body of the Tetuwan Lakota Oyate of the Oceti Sakowin, an original, first nation of people on Turtle Island (North America) and has occupied its territorial land base (hereafter Lakota Territory) since time immemorial into present. The existence of an independent Tetuwan Lakota Nation predates european contact and the United States by thousands of years. The Independent Lakota Nation has never relinquished nation status or extinguished title, and retains all inherent, natural rights of a nation. We are a nation of people whose feet still walk upon our ground.

Independent Lakota Nation citizenship is available to freedom loving Lakota Oyate, other members of the Oceti Sakowin, our allied nations of the Cheyenne and Arapaho, and other Indigenous peoples who are unable to achieve independence within their nation’s existing political structures. We encourage others to assert independent status within their own nations and to grow the mechanisms under International law and the 2007 UNDRIP to support freedom for their people.

ILN citizens may request an Independent Lakota Nation driver license and passport document that validates citizenship and the right to travel over rights of way both within and outside of Lakota Territory. This is in accord with International treaty law, trade law, and Article 36 of the UNDRIP:

1. Indigenous peoples, in particular those divided by international borders, have the right to maintain and develop contacts, relations and cooperation, including activities for spiritual, cultural, political, economic and social purposes, with their own members as well as other peoples across borders.

2. States, in consultation and cooperation with indigenous peoples, shall take effective measures to facilitate the exercise and ensure the implementation of this right.

The Independent Lakota Nation does not force taxes on those non-Lakota persons living within Lakota Territory. Non-Lakota residents of Lakota Territory are encouraged to consider voluntary land or “honor” taxes that recognize access and occupation of stolen Indigenous land and help to support the activities of Lakota independence such as elder support and land management. Contact the Independent Lakota Nation if you wish to engage in an honor tax for Lakota Territory.

No. The sacred traditions, spiritual practices, and cultural life ways of the Tetuwan Lakota Oyate (People) have been passed down and protected by our ancestors for thousands of years, exclusively for the well-­‐being and survival of the Lakota Oyate. Unfortunately, certain individuals are exploiting, abusing, misusing, or misrepresenting the sacred traditions and spiritual practices of the Tetuwan Lakota Oyate for their own purposes, and are allowing non-­‐Lakota persons to participate, facilitate and conduct traditional ceremonies or misuse Lakota cultural property without the free, prior, and informed consent of matriarchal Lakota leadership. We know this is disappointing to hear for some, and we encourage you to find your own ancestral traditions instead.

If you plan to enter Lakota Territory for business or tourism, we ask you do so under protocol. Good protocol recognizes Lakota independence and inherent jurisdiction over our territory, and allows you to enter as a guest in good standing. Entering a nation’s territory under their designated protocol ensures good relationships, avoids conflicts, and aids your safety. Contact: visa@lakotanation.org. Pilamaya! Thank you!