Chincathunyan Ogna Igluhapi na I Oyuzunta (Birthing a Sovereign Nation and Transferring of Character): Resurgence of Indigenous Anchors and Futurity Praxis Through Cradleboarding

Abstract

This dissertation study highlights the transformational process of creating a chuwic’inpa (cradleboard) in community that includes storytelling, Elder wisdom, Lakhol’ Wichoh’an (Lakota Lifeways), paths forward towards community wellness, and the importance of Indigenist Community Based Participatory Research (ICBPR) in action alongside community. This study also highlights the Water Is Life movement and shares a glimpse into the beautiful ripple effect it had on the Standing Rock Nation and beyond. It theorizes the Chuwic’inpa as a resurgence site for lifeways and kinship to be uplifted. There are direct quotes, teachings, and examples from the eight beautiful families that were a part of this larger project of reclaiming and revitalizing the practice of chuwic’inpa kagapi (cradleboarding). My hope is also that other Native and Indigenous communities will find this project useful in their own revitalization efforts and that Native education, maternal and infant health fields, and research fields will gain valuable insights for other ICBPR projects alongside communities.