Sičanġu Resource Development, Rosebud Sioux Tribe
The Rosebud Sioux Tribe, also known as the Sicangu Lakota Oyate or Burnt Thigh People, are descendants of the Sicangu Oyate of the Tetonwan Division of the Oceti Sakowin or Seven Council Fires. The Rosebud Indian Reservation includes 20 communities, with its tribal headquarters located in Rosebud, South Dakota. Sičanġu Resource Development (SRD) is the fundraising arm of the tribe.
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In 2023, SRD was awarded an Office of Indian Economic Development (OIED) Tribal Tourism Grant to conduct a comprehensive cultural heritage tourism feasibility study on behalf of Rosebud. The purpose of the study was to assess the viability of two tourism initiatives: the Sičanġu Cultural Center, a central visitors’ hub for cultural heritage tourism, and the establishment of an official Sičanġu department of tourism.
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Conduct listening and visioning sessions to gain a better understanding of the community's thoughts on tourism.
Develop and distribute a survey for Rosebud residents.
Conduct a market analysis and financial viability assessment of both a cultural heritage tourism center and a standalone department.
Identify cultural, economic, and regional opportunities.
Provide actionable recommendations for future development.
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The assessment showed that cultural heritage tourism is a viable path for economic development for the Sičanġu Lakota Nation. The community insights, secondary data, real world examples, financial projections, partnership opportunities, and recommendations collectively provided a strategic map to assist the Sičanġu Lakota Oyaté in navigating this path. While acknowledging the substantial work ahead, this report is used to support decision-making and to acquire funding for the development of cultural heritage tourism.
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May 2023–Mar 2024
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Max Van Oostenburg — Data collection and analysis, community listening sessions, survey tool design, qualitative data analysis, secondary research, financials, and report writing
Michael Brydge — Data analysis, literature review, and community listening sessions
Julianna Smith — Graphic and layout design, creative direction, and data visualization
