In Loving Memory of Tom Thunder Hawk

Chase Iron Eyes

Posted August 8, 2024

Our community is in mourning over the tragic shooting of a good man on Friday night [Aug 2] at the 2024 Oglala Nation Wačipi. Tom Thunder Hawk was a beloved father, a drum keeper of the Oglala Nation’s powwow, and an important cultural proponent in the Oglala homelands. He began his spirit journey on Sunday [Aug 4] after sustaining multiple gunshot wounds and fighting in ICU for two sunrises. His relatives later honored him by running through town and into the arbor. I send my heartfelt condolences to all of his circle, especially to those I know in his family.

Native people across the land are feeling the weight of this event, which should never have occurred anywhere, much less within the context of what is normally a joyful celebration of our culture and heritage. I was standing with friends just a few yards away when we heard six gunshots ring out — and then people quickly began to scatter and seek safety.

Fortunately, this was not a mass shooting, and I later learned that Tom was killed in an attempt to make peace during an argument between several younger men. Being present has made me consider. Despite our best efforts, my generation could do a better job of communicating the respect and decorum required at powwows and other gatherings where our young people and our elders should feel safe. It isn’t just about gun violence; it’s about understanding the sanctity of the space from the moment you arrive. Tom should never have had to step into an argument in the first place.

After careful consideration, the Oglala Nation and president Frank Star Comes Out elected to continue to powwow over the weekend, incorporating heightened security measures including extra lighting and security and a metal detector, so that the community could come back together. Spiritual leaders led a smudging and prayer ceremony.

I will also do my best to take the right steps going forward. If you’d like to help and you have Cash App, you can assist Tom’s family with expenses as they gather together in this time of grief by clicking this link to pitch in.

Whether or not you can help Tom’s family financially, I’m grateful for your ongoing support of our people. As you know, it is always our goal to keep you informed of the key things affecting our communities, from national issues like preserving tribal sovereignty to localized efforts like keeping people warm and housed in the winter. Sometimes, something happens that makes us take pause on everything else. This is one of those moments. A good man has left us much too soon, and I hope you’ll join me in praying that his family circle is surrounded by light and love.

Wopila tanka — thank you for holding Tom’s family in your heart.

Chase Iron Eyes is the Director and Lead Counsel for The Lakota People’s Law Project, Sacred Defense Fund.