Hûgakebi Dukin Igitoximi (Leadership and Governance)

Tataa Hûgabi (Government)

As Nakota, we are part of Creation and must live according to its natural and spiritual order. The Creator and the Spirit of Creation, and the Land are guiding forces in the governance of our Nation.

The Alexis People believe in the Creator, who brought the universe into being, created humanity, and established the laws that govern both the earthly and spiritual realms. The Creator also set laws for the sun, the land, the waters, and all beings. These laws cannot be broken, and the grandfathers, entrusted with this sacred responsibility, are always present, guiding us in maintaining the covenant we share with the Creator.

Ish?awimin (Elders 65+), as knowledge keepers, safeguard our teachings, laws, and values. They guide leadership and ensure decisions remain true to Nakota ways of knowing.

Hûga (Leader) *Ancient term

Hûgakebi (They made him lead. Also ‘Chief or Spokesman’.)

Togahâcakebi (Headmen)

Ihnu Saba (Black Coats. Also, Treaty Jackets from the Queen.)

Our leaders, Hereditary (Time Immemorial) and Elected (1960), carry responsibility for:

• Upholding our cultural authority and traditional laws.
• Protecting and exercising our Treaty and inherent rights.
• Fulfilling statutory responsibilities under the Indian Act.
• Honoring fiduciary duties in managing lands, assets, and funds.
• Meeting obligations in agreements with governments and partners.

Inimi (Our Culture / Our Way of Life)

• Spiritual – Daily prayer honoring Creator. Celebrating and giving thanks in ceremony and mass.
• Cultural – Language, traditions, and identity.
• Social – Family, kinship, and community well-being.
• Political – Self-determination, traditional governance and Treaty.
• Economic – Businesses, stewardship and sustainable prosperity.

Barē Icazhu (United)

Elders, leadership, youth, women, families, and community are interconnected:

• We are spiritual beings. Our spirit connects us to the Creator and all his creation.
• Elders root us in tradition.
• Leaders serve in governance.
• Youth carry forward the vision and strength of the Nation.
• Women are the firekeepers and life-givers of the Nation.
• Families nurture the values and teachings that sustain our people.
• Culture sustains all aspects of life.

Together, we walk forward, guided by the Creator, for the survival, prosperity, and strength of the Alexis Nakota Sioux Nation.