Watch the premiere from our archive here: Watch Video
Explore the full story and sound clips here: Listen to Audio Clip
This release is part of our ongoing Indigenous Digital Archive Initiative, a project dedicated to preserving Indigenous knowledge and making it accessible for generations to come.
Honoring Zona Loans Arrow: A Life of Teaching and Storytelling
Zona Loans Arrow was a Teton Sioux, Santee Sioux, and Yanktonnai elder, known as a storyteller, teacher, and keeper of traditional knowledge. Born on the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, she learned from her grandparents and great-grandparents the ways of living in harmony with the land.
Her teachings reflect a deep understanding of the balance between people, animals, and the natural world. Zona carried forward the traditions of her ancestors, ensuring that future generations would not lose touch with their cultural roots.
Living in Harmony with the Land
Zona’s teachings centered on sustainability, respect, and responsibility values that are more important now than ever.
She shared how Indigenous communities lived in rhythm with nature:
- Following the herds, rivers, and seasonal cycles
- Using every part of the buffalo and other animals with care
- Gathering plants and herbs at the right time for food, medicine, and ceremony
- Preparing thoughtfully for winter and future needs
Nothing was wasted. Meat nourished families, hides became clothing and shelter, and bones and sinew were transformed into tools and materials. These practices were not just survival; they were expressions of respect for the Earth.
The Role of Women and Community Knowledge
Zona also spoke about the essential roles women held within Indigenous communities. From a young age, women were taught how to tan hides, create clothing, prepare food, and care for children, all guided by generations of knowledge.
These teachings were passed down through storytelling, observation, and practice, ensuring cultural continuity and resilience.
Her voice reminds us that knowledge is not just learned, it is lived, shared, and protected.
The Indigenous Digital Archive Initiative
The Indigenous Digital Archive Initiative is a core effort of Wisdom of the Elders, focused on preserving more than 30 years of Indigenous storytelling, recordings, and cultural documentation.
This initiative works to:
- Digitize thousands of audio and video recordings
- Protect fragile and aging media formats
- Return recordings to the families and tribes who shared them
- Ensure Indigenous sovereignty, consent, and cultural responsibility
These are not just recordings; they are living histories.
By safeguarding these voices, we are supporting education, cultural preservation, and the continued strength of Indigenous communities.
Why This Work Matters Now
In a rapidly changing world, the knowledge shared by elders like Zona Loans Arrow carries timeless importance.
Her teachings encourage us to:
- Respect the land and its natural cycles
- Live with intention and gratitude
- Honor community and shared responsibility
- Pass knowledge forward to future generations
The Indigenous Digital Archive Initiative ensures that these teachings are not lost—but instead amplified and shared with the world.
Watch, Listen, and Support the Archive
We invite you to experience this powerful piece of Indigenous storytelling and support the ongoing work of preservation.
Watch the YouTube premiere:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k72_GJH8C9w
Explore more stories and sound clips:
https://wisdomoftheelders.org/turtle-island-storyteller-zona-loans-arrow/
Your support helps Wisdom of the Elders continue this vital work protecting Indigenous voices, honoring cultural knowledge, and ensuring these stories live on.
Donate to the Indigenous Archive Project
Your support helps Wisdom of the Elders continue this vital work protecting Indigenous voices, honoring cultural knowledge, and ensuring these stories live on.