In a heartfelt address at the Tribal-State Relationship meeting in North Dakota, the chairwoman of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, known as Woman of High Honor, opened with gratitude and a deep sense of pride in her heritage. The gathering, marked by the presence of the Alper Grama post and the Iron Bowl singers, celebrated the rich culture and traditions of the Lakota and Dakota peoples.

The chairwoman acknowledged the collaborative efforts of the North Dakota State Relations Committee and the Indian Affairs Commission, expressing appreciation for their commitment to addressing the needs of tribal nations. She welcomed dignitaries, including Manitoba Premier Wab Kinu Anishinaabe, and emphasized the importance of unity among the five tribal nations represented: the Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara Nation, Spirit Lake Nation, Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa, and Sisseton Wahpeton Nation.

Reflecting on the history of the Standing Rock Nation, she recounted the struggles and resilience of her people, tracing their roots back to the original Sioux Nation territory established by treaties in 1851 and 1868. The chairwoman honored the legacy of notable leaders like Sitting Bull and Rain in a Face, while also highlighting the current achievements of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in areas such as economic development, education, and community engagement.

A significant moment of the address was the acknowledgment of the Albert Grass Memorial Bridge, dedicated to a heroic ancestor who served in World War I. The chairwoman shared a personal connection to Grass, noting that he was her uncle, and praised the legislative support that made the bridge's dedication possible.

The address concluded with a message of hope and determination, as the chairwoman celebrated the growth and success of the tribal nations, made possible through federal funding and community efforts. She emphasized the importance of remembering the past while building a brighter future, leaving attendees with a sense of pride in their shared heritage and a commitment to ongoing collaboration.