Lance Foster: A Brilliant Mind, a Kind Heart, and a Warrior for the Land
Lance Foster was a remarkable individual who left an indelible mark on numerous communities and lives. His vast knowledge and skills, acquired through various disciplines, were matched only by his kindness to others and generosity with his time.
As a teacher, mentor, helper, and warrior, Lance touched the hearts of many. He served as Elder Advisor to Great Plains Action Society for many years, imparting valuable lessons on Iowa's real history, identifying sacred sites during the Dakota Access Pipeline movement, rights of nature, and the importance of collaboration. Lance enjoyed connecting and being connected with new folks all the time and was instrumental in fostering a sense of community and purpose.
Lance's artistic talents were a remarkable aspect of his dynamic personality. As a gifted artist, he explored various mediums and projects throughout his life, using his creativity to convey meaningful expressions of Indigeneity. One of his notable works, Makanye, (mah-KAH-nyay), which means “Cultivating the Earth", stood out for its powerful tribute to the significant contributions of Native American women to agriculture in Iowa and the Great Plains. This poignant drawing adorns the cover of "Iowa's Archaeological Past” and has become an iconic piece used by Great Plains Action Society to further our mission of ReMatriation–which is an ideology Lance stood firmly behind.
In the true fashion of Rematriation, he led the way in the homelands of the Ioway to reestablish Indigenous landscapes, bring back traditional knowledge and give stolen power back to the feminine. As a warrior for the land, Lance fought tirelessly to defend our Earth Mother and Makanye truly embodied this aspect of Lance’s work. For years, it has encouraged Great Plains Action Society to demand the removal of the racist “Pioneers” statue from the Iowa State Capitol grounds and to replace it with a statue created from this powerful piece of art. In fact, Des Moines artist, Molly Free, reproduced Makanye in a six-foot fabric painting that Great Plains Action Society regularly displays during events.
Lance inspired so many of us and his legacy is a testament to his brilliance, thoughtfulness, and talent. We will do our best to honor his memory by using the knowledge he shared to keep building power and love in Indigenous communities and to be in right relationship with the land and all that is sacred.
Rest in Power, Lance Foster.
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Summarizing Lance’s life and achievements is a huge job. Thankfully, there are many that loved and treasured all that he did. More information about Lance's writing, art, work as a Tribal Historic Preservation Officer and more can be read at the links below.
- A Tribute to Lance Foster of the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska
- Statement from the Iowa Tribe of Kansas and Nebraska
