04/21/2026
Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara Nation Affirms Protection of Sacred Ceremonies and
Announces Banishment Action
Fort Berthold Indian Reservation, ND —
The Mandan, Hidatsa, and Arikara (MHA) Nation on April 8th, 2026 reaffirmed its sacred responsibility to protect the integrity of its ceremonies, teachings, and spiritual practices, announcing decisive action to address conduct that threatens these foundational cultural values.
MHA Nation leaders emphasized that their ceremonies are not performances or commodities, but living expressions of identity, healing, and connection to ancestors, community, and the Creator.
These practices are governed by customary laws rooted in respect, humility, accountability, and the collective well-being of the people.
“Ceremony is central to who we are as a Nation,” the statement reads. “It must be protected from misuse, exploitation, and misrepresentation.” Following consistent testimony from ceremonial leaders, cultural advisors, and community members, the MHA Nation has determined that an individual, identified as Dustin Shot With
Two Arrows, has engaged in a pattern of conduct incompatible with the Nation’s values and teachings.
These actions include misrepresenting spiritual authority, charging excessive and fixed fees for ceremonies, manipulating vulnerable individuals, and conducting practices that deviate from traditional teachings.
The Nation reiterated that its spiritual traditions do not place a price on ceremony. Offerings are given freely and according to one’s ability, never demanded or enforced. Leaders stressed that any attempt to commercialize or control ceremony undermines its purpose and violates cultural law.
Community members have also raised concerns about emotional, spiritual, and cultural harm associated with these actions. Reports describe fear, distress, family division, and confusion among individuals seeking guidance particularly among those already experiencing illness, grief, or hardship.
“Those entrusted with spiritual responsibility must act with compassion, honesty, and care,” the statement notes. “Exploitation of vulnerability stands in direct opposition to our teachings.”
To protect the integrity of its ceremonies and safeguard community well-being, the MHA Nation has enacted the removal and banishment of Dustin Shot With Two Arrows from the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation.
Leaders emphasized that this action is not solely punitive, but protective. “This decision reflects our duty to preserve the sanctity of ceremony, protect our people, and uphold the customary laws that have guided us since time immemorial,” the Nation stated.
The MHA Nation underscored that protecting its ceremonies is also essential for future generations, ensuring that cultural teachings remain accurate, respected, and undistorted. “We act not out of anger, but out of responsibility,” the statement concludes. “Our commitment is to our ancestors, our children, and the continued strength and integrity of our Nation.”
