Maȟpíya Lúta was honored to participate in the 2025 Jesuit Integral Ecology Assembly held at Loyola University Chicago, June 17–20. Representing our organization were Director of Food Sovereignty Esperanza Hartman and Greenhouse Coordinator Carrie Twiss, who joined nearly 100 delegates from Jesuit institutions across the United States and Canada.
Esperanza Hartman delivered a powerful presentation highlighting Maȟpíya Lúta’s food sovereignty initiatives—sharing how our work is rooted in Lakota values, community connection, and land-based healing. She emphasized the importance of Indigenous leadership in addressing ecological challenges and described how our programs not only grow food but cultivate knowledge, wellness, and cultural revitalization.
The Assembly, organized by all five provinces of the Jesuit Conference of Canada and the United States in partnership with the Ignatian Solidarity Network and the Jesuit Conference Office of Justice and Ecology, marked a pivotal moment for ecological leadership across Jesuit ministries. This gathering served as both a celebration of ongoing environmental efforts and a call to deeper collaboration across communities and sectors.
Framed by the Universal Apostolic Preferences and the Laudato Si’ Action Platform, the Assembly focused on fostering ecological conversion through spiritual reflection, honest dialogue, and practical action. Delegates explored how to overcome barriers to change while grounding efforts in hope, gratitude, and a shared commitment to protecting our common home.
Maȟpíya Lúta’s presence brought a vital Indigenous voice to the conversation. Our delegation’s participation underscored the role of Native-led organizations in shaping a more just and sustainable future—guided by ancestral knowledge and the strength of our community.