The MKP UK&I community are deeply grateful for the awareness raised by the Sioux Nation and have now removed Lakota-inspired rituals from what we do: we would like to support any broader educational efforts of SPIRIT and/or The Sioux Nation within the powers and purpose allowed by our founding documents and regulating authority.
MKP UK&I specifically acknowledge:
1. That we have used rituals and cultural elements derived from Lakota traditions which included a Purification & Renewal Ceremony (P&RC) closely based on the All-Nations ceremony.
2. During all trainings where the P&RC was conducted within UK&I, we complied with the strict protocol that we were always assured held appropriate permissions.
3. In October 2022, MKP UK&I became aware that multiple clear statements by the leaders of the Sioux Nation and other Tribes had been made requesting that their traditions not be used in this way within MKP. Upon understanding that the Leaders of the Sioux Nation do not support the continued use of their ceremonies MKP UK&I took immediately compliant actions including the removal of the P&RC, from all trainings and events.
4. We continue to evaluate, review and remove the use of all Lakota-derived rituals and favour making our own way with ceremony aligned with our own culture and heritage. We would welcome support from Spirit/Lakota in that journey.
5. Within the powers and purpose allowed by our founding documents and regulating authority UK&I would like to support any broader educational efforts of SPIRIT and/or the Sioux Nation to bring greater awareness of appropriation issues to the general public.
6. UK&I would be honoured to meet with the Sioux Nation with a view to being in Right Relation with the Sioux Nation