The working title of Tag Richards’ sculpture comes from what he heard at the “Gathering of the Tribes” held in Lewiston, Idaho in October of 2000. These words were both used as an introduction for Rod and to entice him to get up and speak the audience, after declining to speak moments before.
When Rod spoke from his heart to the hundreds of tribal representatives and high-ranking government officials from several agencies about the plight of his people and the cruelty that they have endured, he left very few dry eyes in the room. It was a deeply moving speech that inspires Tag whenever he feels any doubt about why he is doing this work.
The early research of Mr. Richards led to many new relationships
including a close bond with Sacajawea's descendants, the Ariwite family.
Rod Ariwite's daughter and grandson have served as models and inspiration
for the sculpture and fueled Tag's passion for giving voice to the story
of the Lemhi people.
the GOAL
- Advance cultural understandings. Gifting the art to the nation as a enduring gesture for healing differences.
- Honor the past and send enduring messages to the future through tribal quotes, songs, and prayers enveloped within the overall design. The art is also to be seen as a permanent window for history that will transcend politics. It is hoped the ancestral children will speak, so their wounds will not bleed any longer.
- Involve the Lemhi People at every opportunity, respecting their distinct culture, heritage, and point of view.
- Include, with protocol, willing Tribes to participate. Tribes will be invited to contribute ceremony, prayers and medicine supporting the artwork.
- Educate and illuminate the public about the history of Sacajawea and her people, the Lemhi Shoshone. As well as providing the opportunity for all Tribes to present their unique prospectives.
- Inspire viewers through form and light in a monumental artwork with historic significance.
research through PEOPLE
The most important aspect of the research has been the people.
Through the involvement and support of Rod Ariwite, his family, and the Lemhi people, this project has become more authentic and meaningful.
This unique work is created from history with the participation of Sacajawea’s people. It is truly an expression from the sculptor’s heart.
This is a photo of Sadie Ariwite, Rod’s great-aunt. Sadie’s mother was a part of the 200 mile forced march in the spring of 1907, when her people were exiled from their homeland to the Fort Hall Reservation in southern Idaho. This was known as the “Lemhi Trail of Tears”. Here the Lemhi became the foster children of the Shoshone-Bannock.
She passed away in 2003. Tag rededicated his energies in her memory.
