Porticus Perspectives - Paula Iron Cloud “Ta Thiikceya Hocoka Wi”

A student and natural (Indigenous) youth leader

South Dakota in the USA made headlines earlier this year after State legislation was passed to revise Social Studies standards (curricula guidelines) that “effectively perpetuate stereotypes, misinformation, and eradication of Indigenous people from State history”, according to Porticus partner, the South Dakota Education Equity Coalition (SDEEC). 

Paula shares her perspectives:

I draw strength from my name. It helps to shape my life’s purpose around its power. It fuels my drive to learn, serve others and achieve great things. 

My mother instilled in me the importance of education. I never fully understood this until now. With education comes power, and it’s up to us to decide how we use it in this world. 

I discovered my activist voice in my Junior year. I became involved in my school beyond academics, taking part in the Social Studies Standards Hearing at the State Capitol to make my voice heard against the new standards. Our nine Native tribes in South Dakota were not consulted and there was no collaboration. Our perspectives have been excluded. Local educators were overlooked, and external entities formulated these new standards, which barely acknowledged Native American history and culture. Despite overwhelming opposition, the South Dakota Studies Standards Board proceeded with the new standards. 

This moment opened my eyes to the urgency of advocacy. The experience showcased the need for our voices to be heard. It awakened my inner advocate, determined to preserve my heritage and use my voice for meaningful change. 

Just simply be truthful. Through life we’re constantly told to speak our truth, so I think it’s only right that we learn from truth as well. This is why I believe in a more inclusive and culturally representative Social Studies standard. 

We need to take a stand. Democracy to me has lately been an empty word. Rule of the people, with a supermajority to change any rule that they want. A majority ruling the minority. Now is the time to let our voices be heard.

Do not become discouraged. This is my message to marginalised communities around the world who feel the systems don’t reflect them. Your identity in this world matters. Be your truest self and remember that change can begin within all of you. 

I want to counteract prevalent negative influences. My advocacy involves addressing real-life issues, particularly from a reservation standpoint. Through my music, I want to uplift people by highlighting the beauty of Lakota culture and ancestral wisdom. My goal is to demonstrate that authenticity is more impactful than conforming to stereotypes. 

Mental health, particularly among youth in marginalised communities, deeply concerns me. I see a disconnect between generations which is contributing to societal challenges. This gap is obstructing progress within our community, our country and our world. I want to use my passion for music and education to bridge this divide to bring about healing and understanding. 

This concept is my anchor through life’s highs and lows: a Lakota term, “Wachinthanka” which symbolises perseverence and endurance. To navigate life’s challenges I embody the spirit of Wachinthanka. 

My culture and heritage is enriched with connections, power, and knowledge. People often overlook this. A Lakota Elder once said that “The Lakota Life is a hard life, but a good life.” Despite everything, the Oceti Sakowin are alive and thriving. 

“Paula is destined to emerge as a future leader who will inspire and motivate those who cross her path – including future Indigenous generations,” says Marlin Kingi, a teacher at Lakota Tech High School who has taught Paula.

Our goal is to help elevate an Indigenous youth movement that is motivated and engaged to advocate for their rights. By understanding how power systems work, they can use their influence to create positive systems change.