Ponokamiita Initiative
Bound By Hoof and Heart: The Horse as My Friend
The Ponokamita Initiative is a cultural revitalization project that offers two key programs to reconnect Blackfeet youth with their heritage through horses and traditional teachings. The Ponokamita Academy provides a year-long opportunity for youth to receive and raise their own horse, while learning traditional horsemanship and participating in a curriculum focused on Blackfeet history, culture, and wellness. The Ponokamita Camp brings the community together, offering hands-on learning, Elder teachings, and ceremonies centered on traditional horse culture. Together, these programs foster leadership, resilience, and a deep connection to Blackfeet traditions.
Piegan and The Elk-Dog
(PohnoKahMiita)
As an orphaned and abandoned boy, Long Arrow was adopted by the elder Good Running. Upon reaching manhood, Long Arrow asked Good Running how he could repay him. Good Running told him of a spirit people at the bottom of a distant lake who had an unknown animal, swift as an elk but also a burden-carrier, like a dog. It was called ponoka-mita (Elk Dog).
Long Arrow found the lake and met a young spirit who took him to the bottom, where the spirit grandfather lived. The young spirit told Long Arrow to watch for a glimpse of the old man’s feet, which he kept hidden under his long black robe. If Long Arrow saw them, the old man would grant his request.
After four days, the old man’s robe caught on a post, and Long Arrow saw that he had hoofs like the Elk Dogs. The old man was the master of the Elk Dogs. Long Arrow asked for three things: the black robe that prevented horses from running away, a rainbow-colored quilled belt that carried Elk Dog dance songs and prayers, and a herd of the animals. The old man granted the requests and also gave Long Arrow a magic rope to catch the Elk Dog. And so the Blackfeet have been horse-people ever since.
Ponokamiita Academy
We will soon be accepting applications for our fist cohort of students to join the Ponokamita Academy. The academy is a year-long program where youth receive their own horse to raise and grow with throughout the year. As they learn about Traditional horsemanship, participants engage in a culturally-rich curriculum that includes caring for their horses, Elder teachings, regalia making, and exploring Blackfeet history, culture, and well-being. This program builds resilience, leadership, and a deep connection to heritage, all while nurturing the sacred bond between horses and the Amskapi Piikani.
Ponokamiita Camp
At Sikapiyohkitoopi “White Rider” Healing Ranch in Two Medicine, Montana, home of our Ponokamita Camps. Experience traditional horsemanship, Elder teachings, and ceremony, all while connecting with the Land and honoring the sacred bond between horses and our people.