On 2/10/2022 Justin Peters passed away following a hit and run accident in Rapid City, SD. The Peters tiwahe (family) have always treated myself and many others with love and generosity, and I'm fundraising to help them pay for Justin's funeral expenses.
Justin Peters' parents, Will and Lena Peters, are always working to uplift their community and revitalize Lakota culture. They are fierce advocates for their people and work to uplift Lakota youth and revitalize Lakota culture. I never personally knew Justin, but I would guess he had the same strength and warmth that both of his parents and siblings do.
Nobody should ever have to experience the unimaginable pain of losing a child. Heartbreakingly, Will and Lena Peters first experienced this in 2016 when their daughter Kerry Lynn Peters lost her life following a traffic accident involving OST police. In the years since her passing, the Peters have dedicated their time to advocating for MMIW and bringing awareness to racial profiling and inequities. They are now mourning the sudden loss of their oldest son, and there are no words that can be said to ease that sorrow. As they grieve and make preparations for Justin's funeral, I'm hoping to raise enough money for them to cover funeral expenses. At the very least, it's one less thing for them to worry about, and they can focus on honoring the life of their son.
My lekši (uncle) Will Peters has been guiding light for me. I first met him and his tiwahe many years ago when I was volunteering for Re-Member, and they have had a profound impact on my life. Will teaches Lakota language and culture at Pine Ridge High School and sponsors the Waziahaŋhaŋ Šiyotaŋka Okolakičiye (Pine Ridge Flute Society). His wife Lena, their children, and their grandchildren are artists, musicians, water protectors, and strong advocates for the Lakota oyate, especially Lakota youth. They are truly some of the kindest and most giving people I've met, and I'm honored to know them.
Please consider donating to help the Peters family, and if you are unable to donate, I would greatly appreciate if you could share this fundraiser. I hope that with enough contributions and shares, in a small way we can provide for a family that has given so much love to others. Pilamayaye (thank you).
