- Details
- By Cheyenne River Youth Project
EAGLE BUTTE, S.D. — The Cheyenne River Youth Project’s 26th Annual Passion for Fashion, also known as Wačhípí kta Iglúwiŋyeyapi (Youth Get Ready for the Dance), will take place from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturday, March 14, at CRYP’s Cokata Wiconi (Center of Life) Teen Center. This year’s theme is “Barbie.”
Colorful and unapologetically bold, the theme provides a playful yet powerful backdrop for celebrating young women and two-spirit youth during Women’s History Month. Artwork from local Lakota artist Tammy “TamiJoy” Granados and banners bearing empowering quotes from the beloved film will surround teens as they enjoy the afternoon and early evening at the teen center.
“For generations, Lakota women have embodied strength, creativity and leadership,” said Julie Garreau, CRYP’s chief executive officer. “This year’s theme allows our youth to explore self-expression in a joyful way while also honoring the women who came before them.”
Designed for young people in grades 7-12, the event will begin with a catered luncheon featuring chicken chipotle bowls and Garreau’s hand-crafted Barbie cake. Teens also will participate in icebreaking activities with Lakota elder Renee Iron Hawk and listen to keynote addresses from River Gunville and Precious Cook, Miss He Sapa Win 2025-26.
After lunch, attendees will head to the Morgan Yellowhead Gymnasium to select prom dresses, other formalwear, shoes and accessories. Volunteers will provide hair styling, makeup and nail services, while community ambassadors will be on hand to connect with teens.
“We’ve invited Sacred Heart representatives to return as community ambassadors after leading thoughtful conversations about healthy boundaries during our recent Valentine’s Day community dinner,” said Jerica Jones, CRYP’s programs director. “They’ll offer additional guidance and support throughout the day.”
Jones added that CRYP welcomes additional community members who would like to volunteer with self-care services or serve as ambassadors for the event.
“Passion for Fashion definitely helps prepare our teens for the high school prom, but at its heart, it’s about mentorship and connection,” she said. “Every year at Passion for Fashion, teens build new friendships, make memories with family members and connect with positive role models of all ages. I think that’s why it has endured for more than a quarter century.”
After the evening concludes with the eagerly anticipated fashion show on CRYP’s catwalk, attendees will take home swag bags filled with gifts. For a second consecutive year, Native-led Prados Beauty is generously supporting this year’s Passion for Fashion by providing beauty products to help young people feel confident and celebrated.
Cecelia Meadows, Prados Beauty’s founder and chief executive officer, is a Yoeme (also known as Yaqui) entrepreneur and philanthropist who lives and works in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Prados Beauty is a reflection of her belief that beauty can be a force for good; the brand is committed to inclusivity, quality and giving back.
For those teens who are unable to attend Passion for Fashion 2026, CRYP will provide private appointments so they also will have access to the formalwear and accessories they need for this prom season. While staff hope to have all donations in house by Friday, March 13, they will continue to accept donations after Passion for Fashion to help serve these additional youth and their families.
CRYP is seeking new and gently used formalwear and accessories, including:
- Dresses (especially sizes 16-26)
- Tuxedos, suits, dress shirts, dress pants, and ties
- Shoes (especially sizes 9-12)
- Jewelry and hair accessories
- Makeup sets, bath sets, and other self-care items
- Gift cards and monetary donations, which allow CRYP staff to purchase items based on specific needs
For more information, visit lakotayouth.org/passion-for-
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