Native American Movement and Early Struggles
Richard Twiss, known as Taoyate Ob Najin, was born into the Sicangu Lakota Oyate from the Rosebud Sioux Reservation on June 11, 1954. As a young Native American, Richard faced the challenge of navigating a predominantly white world after his family moved to Silverton, Oregon, in 1962. This experience fueled his involvement with the American Indian Movement in the 1970s, where he protested against the U.S. government's treatment of Native peoples. Despite his activism, he struggled with animosity toward white people and Christianity, which he viewed as 'the White man's religion.'
Drug Overdose Salvation Story
In 1974, while living a transient lifestyle in Maui, Hawaii, Richard's life took an unexpected turn. During a drug overdose, he remembered the words shared by Evangelical Christians he had encountered while hitchhiking. Desperate for peace, he cried out, 'Jesus, if you are real, would you forgive me, would you come into my life?' In that moment, Richard felt an overwhelming sense of peace, a turning point that led him to embrace a new path as a follower of Jesus.
Building Reconciliation Ministry
Following this transformation, Richard dedicated his life to reconciliation and ministry. He married Katherine in 1976 and later founded Wiconi International, an organization aimed at empowering Native Americans to maintain their cultural identity while embracing Christianity. Richard emphasized that Native people could follow 'the Jesus way' without abandoning their heritage. As he often expressed, 'You can't have unity without diversity.'
Legacy of Cultural Identity and Faith
Richard's work extended beyond his community. He became a renowned speaker and author, contributing to various publications and serving on boards like the Christian Community Development Association. Through his efforts, he sought to 'rescue the gospel from white assimilation' and envisioned a future where Native cultural expressions would enrich the broader Christian community.
Richard Twiss's journey from hostility to healing stands as a testament to the transformative power of Jesus. Until his passing in 2013, he remained committed to building bridges and fostering understanding, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire many.
