Collaboration with South Dakota Public Broadcasting

The American Buffalo, a new two-part, four-hour series, takes viewers on a journey through more than 10,000 years of North American history and across some of the continent’s most iconic landscapes, tracing the animal’s evolution, significance to the Great Plains, near demise, and relationship to the Indigenous People of North America. You can watch the full film here.

You may already recognize us for our steadfast commitment to supporting Native buffalo producers, enabling them to raise buffalo and regenerate American grasslands. However, there's a deeper layer to Tanka Fund, which is deeply rooted in our Lakota heritage and values.

This year, we proudly collaborate with South Dakota Public Broadcast (SDPB) to bring you Ken Burns' captivating documentary, "The American Buffalo." This partnership aligns seamlessly with our ongoing mission to shed light on the profound historical significance of the buffalo within Native communities throughout America.

"The American Buffalo," a remarkable two-part, four-hour series, embarks on a profound journey spanning over 10,000 years of North American history. It traverses some of the continent's most iconic landscapes, tracing the buffalo's evolution, its intrinsic importance to Indigenous people and the majestic landscapes of the Great Plains, its tragic near-extinction, and the tireless efforts to revive these magnificent creatures from the brink of oblivion.

For us at Tanka Fund, this documentary is more than just a film. It's an opportunity to rekindle the sacred bond between the buffalo and our Lakota culture. It's a testament to the enduring spirit of Native communities and their unwavering commitment to restoring balance to the land. By sharing this incredible narrative, we aim to inspire and educate, fostering a deeper appreciation for the buffalo's place in our heritage and in shaping the future of our people and the land we cherish.