Healing and Preserving Water: A Dream in Action
Since its founding, Running Strong for American Indian Youth has upheld a powerful and simple belief: clean water is a human right. What began with truckloads of water deliveries and hand-dug wells has grown into a far-reaching movement, connecting communities to life-giving resources and hope.
Mni Wiconi: Water Is Life
In 2015, Running Strong launched the Mni Wiconi (Water is Life) program, aiming to bring clean, running water to Native families across the Pine Ridge Reservation. Since its inception, 309 families have been successfully connected to the main water line, ensuring a safer, healthier future.
That same year, the Dreamstarter Program was born, empowering Native youth to lead change in their communities. Many of these youth have chosen to focus on water advocacy, turning personal dreams into movements of environmental justice.
A New Generation of Water Protectors
In 2023, we proudly celebrated the 8th year of Dreamstarter Academy, with a focus on uplifting Native youth working at the intersection of water protection and environmental justice. Among them was Autumn Harry, a young water rights activist and fishing guide from the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe of Nevada.
Autumn’s dream is clear and urgent: to heal and preserve the waters of Pyramid Lake for future generations.
The Story of Pyramid Lake
Traditionally known as Kooyooe Pa’a Panunadu, Pyramid Lake sits at the end of the Truckee River Watershed, just outside of Reno, Nevada. Over the years, it has suffered from toxic mining runoff, damming, and systemic federal neglect. As a result, Indigenous fish species have teetered on extinction, and the community’s health, food sovereignty, and economy face significant threats.
The Great Basin Nation Building Initiative
To protect her community and their sacred waters, Autumn launched the Great Basin Nation Building Initiative, a project that empowers the next generation of Native environmental organizers. Her annual event, The Journey of a Water Protector, brings together regional Native activists and community organizers to strategize, build solidarity, and take action.
In 2023, over 60 local leaders and residents gathered to share knowledge and mobilize as stewards of land and water. With another gathering planned for this summer, Autumn continues to expand her reach and deepen her impact.
Art as Activism
Autumn also uses public art as a tool for awareness and education. She recently completed a stunning mural at the heart of the University of Nevada, Reno. This vibrant work serves as a cultural beacon, informing non-tribal neighbors about the critical efforts to protect local tribal water rights and honor the sacredness of Pyramid Lake.
Standing With Autumn, Standing for Clean Water
Thanks to Autumn’s Dreamstarter project and the ongoing support of Running Strong, efforts to restore and protect Pyramid Lake are gaining momentum. Her leadership is not only impacting her own Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribe but also neighboring Indigenous communities working toward water sovereignty.
When you support Running Strong, you’re standing with leaders like Autumn Harry, individuals fighting for a future where every Native family has access to clean, safe water.
