I know Great Spirit is looking down upon me from above, and will hear what I say.
Sitting BullRead
Therefore, I do not wish to consider any proposition to cede any portion of our tribal holdings to the Great Father.
Interpretation
What this quote means
Sitting Bull expresses a strong refusal to give up tribal land, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and ownership.
In this quote, Sitting Bull articulates a deep connection to his people's land and rights. The term 'Great Father' refers to the United States government, symbolizing the authority that seeks to take control of Native American lands. By rejecting any proposition to cede tribal holdings, Sitting Bull underscores the values of independence, resistance, and the importance of preserving cultural identity against external pressures.
Themes
LandSovereigntyResistanceTribal RightsIdentity
In practice
Example use cases
This quote can be used in a speech advocating for indigenous land rights.
More from Sitting Bull
All quotes βI want to tell you that if the Great Spirit had chosen anyone to be the chief of this country, it is myself.
Sitting BullRead
Is it wrong for me to love my own? Is it wicked for me because my skin is red? Because I am Sioux? Because I was born where my father lived? Because I would die for my people and my country?
Sitting BullRead
When I was a boy, the Sioux owned the world. The sun rose and set on their land; they sent ten thousand men to battle. Where are the warriors today? Who slew them? Where are our lands? Who owns them?
Sitting BullRead
I wish it to be remembered that I was the last man of my tribe to surrender my rifle.
Sitting BullRead
God made me an Indian, but not a reservation Indian.
Sitting BullRead
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