Pine Ridge Indian Reservation 

From 1980 to 2000, the counties that make up Pine Ridge Indian Reservation in South Dakota comprised the poorest of our nation’s 3,143 counties. The 2000 census found them the third poorest Indian Reservation.

 

 

Pine Ridge Statistics as of 2007 (according to non-profit organization Re-Member):

• Unemployment rate of 89%

• Per capita income of $4,000

• 8 Times the United States rate of diabetes

• 5 Times the United States rate of cervical cancer

• Twice the rate of heart disease

• 8 Times the United States rate of Tuberculosis

• Population: estimated 38,000

• Alcoholism rate estimated as high as 80%

• 1 in 4 infants born with fetal alcohol syndrome or effects

• Suicide rate more than twice the national rate

• Teen suicide rate 4 times the national rate

• Infant mortality is three times the national rate

• Life expectancy on Pine Ridge is the lowest in the United States and the 2nd lowest in the Western Hemisphere. Only Haiti has a lower rate

• An estimated 80% of girls on the Reservation have been sexually abused

 

In order to effectively partner with our brothers and sisters in Christ at Pine Ridge, it is pivotal to understand the dynamics of the Reservation. Pine Ridge Indian Reservation is a complicated enigma that resides right here in America. It encompasses about 1 million acres, located in the southwest corner of South Dakota. The nearest airport is located in Rapid City, South Dakota, approximately two hours away, effectively isolating the Reservation from society as we know it. The population is unknown; however, Pine Ridge is overcrowded as is evident by the several generations of families living in cramped, two-bedroom houses.

Historically, the Lakota have been a people mistreated and abused by the “white man.” Understanding the past is the key to making a connection between the conditions on the reservation today and the history of these people. Pine Ridge is a place of hopelessness. Many Native Americans living here have given up on improving their situation; instead, they have channeled their energy into resentment and anger. Most are unable to move on from these past events. And, even if they wanted to, for many, there are no opportunities for them to make a life for themselves on the reservation. Government aid has only made the situation worse. Many Native Americans rely on government money in order to live. As a result, many do not look for work or a job.

The poverty on Pine Ridge can be described in no other terms than third world. It is common to find homes overcrowded, as those with homes take in whoever needs a roof over their heads. Many homes are without running water, and without sewer.

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