"Too many people see the drunks on the streets of Whiteclay and rampant alcoholism on the Pine Ridge Reservation and fall into hopelessness. Sadly, this includes some Lakota. It's important to remember that things don't have to be this way.

Alcoholism, depression and irresponsibility are not an inevitable, permanent part of Lakota culture. The Lakota were once a proud people who thrived without alcohol. They can be again.

The current problems portrayed in the Journal Star's "Standing at the Crossroads" special report can be overcome. There's some evidence that improvement already has begun, that the downward spiral might be reversing."

Get the Story:
Editorial: Whiteclay's hopelessness can be ended (The Lincoln Journal Star 5/24)

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