Please join us for a very special event: The Path of the Heyoka: Teachings with Waste Oyate Win from the Sicangu Oyate Nation.

This event is open to the public and by donation.

About Waste Oyate Win

My name is Mary Ann Bear Heels. My traditional name is Waste Oyate Win or Good Nation Woman. I was born on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota which in our way is known as Sicangu Oyate or Burnt Thigh Nation which is a part of the Seven Council Fires of the Great Sioux Nation. I was raised by my grandmother in the traditional ways of our people.

At an early age I was exposed to the spiritual ways of our ancestors. I learned how to pray and understand the ceremonies and customs of our old ways. I participated in the ceremonies long before the U.S. Goverment allowed our people to practice our religion. I became a Sun Dancer in the early 1970's and continue to do so today. I became an early activist for the rights of our Indigenous people and participated in many marches, demonstrations and activities that sought to bring about equality and understanding of our people.

I was a participant in the take over of the Wounded Knee community and for the first time in my life, I became under gun fire of the U.S. Government. I was there for the duration of the occupation and was marched out and surrendered to the forces of the Government. In my spiritual awakening, I not only a Sundancer but became aware of the fact that I was what is called Heyoka This is given to few people and allows those of us who have this to have insight into the prayers and healing of people.. We occupy a sacred and honorable position within the spiritual circle of our people I have the ability to be able to connect with our ancestors who have gone on before.

I am able to forsee the future events for people who come to me or who I come into contact with. I dream and have visions and also am able to interpret the dreams and visions of others. I am not a fortune teller but the dreams and visions come to me in a sacred way, This gift is not for sale and can only be used with prayer and understanding. I have learned these ways in a combination of sitting with our spiritual leaders and for the understanding that comes within me. I also utilize many of the old medicines and herbs that can help with the medical needs of the people. I will be sharing about the journey of the Heyoka from the perspective of the tradition I come from.