For a young man to receive a traditional gift such as an eagle feather, is a great honor. It is used to guide him in life and to be used in prayer. The eagle's feather assists and guides the prayers up to the great spirit. In addition, the female student receives a plume instead of an eagle feather. The philosophy is that Lakota women believe in praying with water.
Water is a symbol of life.
The parents perform an honoring dance to celebrate the achievement of thier child. The Baccalaureate Mass took place on Friday morning before graduation. The graduating class was honored once again, this time in the Catholic tradition. Many prayers were said, and God was thanked and praised for nurturing these young minds. The Mass was attended by the extended families of each graduate.