Eagle Feather – American Indian Cultural Exchange began with conversations between Leslie and her aunt Colleen during a 2026 trip to Istanbul, Turkey.
Reflecting on their Lakota upbringing, family stories and the teachings passed down to them, they considered what future generations would inherit, and how those connections could endure as families grow and lives take them farther from home.
From those conversations came the idea for Eagle Feather: a way to bring their heritage into new relationships and shared experiences overseas, while keeping family and community at the heart of its development.
Founded by two Lakota women, Eagle Feather welcomes collaboration with other American Indian Nations, each bringing its own history, traditions and perspectives.
Eagle Feather exists to strengthen connections between American Indian communities and communities across Europe and beyond, with a particular commitment to Lakota people.
Our purpose is to preserve living histories, nurture belonging across generations, and create opportunities that benefit Native people and their communities.
Eagle Feather works with Native artists, storytellers, educators and entrepreneurs to develop cultural and creative projects with international partners.
Through performances, educational visits, film and community events, we help turn ideas into opportunities for shared learning, collaboration and paid work.
Our role includes bringing people together, coordinating projects and supporting the practical steps that make participation possible, from early conversations to planning and delivery.
Learning Goes Both Ways.
Cultural exchange begins with listening. It brings people together to learn from one another through conversation, creativity and shared experiences.
Each Native participant decides what they wish to share and how it is presented. Respect for cultural boundaries, fair compensation and mutual benefit guide our approach.
Fund the Bridge. Not the Culture.
A Symbol of Honor, Connection and Responsibility
For many American Indian Nations, the eagle holds profound cultural and spiritual significance. An eagle feather can represent honor, strength, wisdom and responsibility, with meanings rooted in each Nation’s distinct traditions.
We chose Eagle Feather to reflect the care and intention behind our work. For us, the name is a reminder to honor our relationships, listen with humility and respect the knowledge entrusted to us.
It also speaks to our connection with those who came before us and the generations who will follow. We carry that responsibility into the relationships we build and the stories we help share.
To All Our Relatives.
