FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: FRIDAY, AUGUST 1, 2025
Rapid City, SD – Today, after three days of evidentiary hearings around a case involving NDN Collective founder and CEO Nick Tilsen – two days occurring in June and one taking place today – the judge has taken the case under advisement, requested finding of fact from each party, and is expected to make a final decision in the coming months.
“We are confident the judge will rule in Nick’s favor after having time to review the evidence and testimonies presented today,” said Wizipan Little Elk Garriott, NDN Collective President. “In the meantime, NDN Collective’s work to build power for Indigenous people continues.”
“Today’s packed courtroom illustrates both the support for and significance of Nick’s leadership in Rapid City and beyond,” said Gaby Strong, NDN Collective Vice-President. “No matter what obstacles are thrown at him, Nick continues to lead with courage and a steadfast commitment to justice.”
“You can recognize a true leader when they’re continuously attacked by those committed to upholding the status quo – which is exactly what’s happening to Nick,” said Norma Rendon, elder and community leader. “This case is bigger than Nick or any one person – it’s about protecting the right to free speech and freedom of movement for all people.”
“I was honored to support Nick today alongside so many others who recognize this case as a politically motivated attempt to reverse progress made by and for Indigenous people,” said Bryan Brewer, founder of the Lakota Nation Invitational. “I look forward to NDN Collective’s continued work to build Indigenous power and serve their communities.”
Support for the charges against Nick to be dropped is clear, with more than 14,000 signatures on a petition to the Pennington County State’s Attorney’s office.
###
NDN Collective is an Indigenous-led organization dedicated to building Indigenous power. Through organizing, activism, philanthropy, grantmaking, capacity-building, and narrative change, we are creating sustainable solutions on Indigenous terms.