Controversy flares over use of tribal pipe
Swedish film group denies exploitation before film's debut
By Peter Harriman
Peter Harriman
Published: August 1, 2007
A simmering controversy over custodianship of the Lakota White Buffalo Calf
pipe has ignited again as a Swedish film, "Spirits for Sale," is set for
screening.
The film deals in part with the exploitation of Lakota sacred sites, items
and ceremonies.
Arvol Looking Horse, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe whose
family is the traditional keeper of the sacred pipe, has long been a source
of controversy among some Lakota who question whether he is using the pipe
for commercial purposes.
Alfred Bone Shirt, a plaintiff in a landmark voting rights lawsuit several
years ago, is among those questioning Looking Horse about the pipe.
"We are asking for accountability for the marketing of the Sacred White
Buffalo Calf Pipe," says Bone Shirt, a Lakota and South Dakotan.
Confusion about Looking Horse's treatment of the pipe "has caused a serious
division among our Oyate," according to Bone Shirt.
It has exposed Lakota people to ridicule that the sacred pipe is being used
in fundraising schemes, including bringing the pipe and accompanying sacred
bundle to Sweden for a price, he says.
Annika Banfield, a member of the project team that produced the Swedish
film, firmly denies the pipe will be used that way.
"There has never been a discussion between Arvol Looking Horse and me or
the foundation about him receiving money for coming to Sweden. ... We would
not try to buy a sacred object of a holy man. ...The sacred bundle will not
be brought to Sweden. It stays with the Lakota people," she says.
The film group has raised $3,000 in travel expenses for Looking Horse to
come to Sweden, she says.
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August 2007 Reports
Last updated on August 13, 2007