Buffalo Puppet Procession Traces Native History Through NYC’s Streets
“Return of the Buffalo: Tatanka Owe Akupi” pays homage to 38 Dakota men executed by President Abraham Lincoln in Mankato, Minnesota, in 1862.
A troupe of 40 towering buffalo puppets made their way through the streets of Lower Manhattan on September 18, stopping at significant historical landmarks such as Bowling Green, Federal Hall, the World Trade Center, Chinatown, and more. This marked the second and concluding segment of their "Return of the Buffalo: Tatanka Owe Akupi" journey, which will continue into downtown Brooklyn on September 19.
The production, conceived by theater writer and director Amir Nizar Zuabi, collaborated with descendants of the Lenape Indigenous people and Lakota elders to celebrate the deep cultural connection the buffalo has held for Native Americans for millennia.
Amir Zuabi's artistic team, Immediate Medium, followed the guidance of these elders to shape the project's core concepts. JJ Lind, the artistic director for Immediate Medium, explained that they sought feedback from community members to inform the activities along the route. Throughout Manhattan, performances by Native dance troupes, gospel choirs, and Lenape youth took place at nine historic sites, including Broad Street Plaza and Zuccotti Park, creating an engaging atmosphere.
The procession's itinerary highlighted various phases in the buffalo's history within the United States, from its near-extinction during the 19th century to its resurgence, thanks to the tireless efforts of Native activists and conservationists.
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