A Reminiscence of Kevin Locke

I have known Kevin Locke since the early 1980’s, when we both lived on Standing Rock and taught the Faith either directly or through various activities. He was a patient and kind man, full of good will, and always giving respect and honor to the various groups of Indigenous and other peoples. Kevin would use his platform to highlight the other tribes, especially under-represented ones, other performers, and even the participants. He didn’t like the spotlight to be on him alone. That wasn’t what he was about. And He was always careful to acknowledge the Indigenous lands we were on.

In the spring of 2021, Kevin contacted me, wondering if I would help him find a place where he could give a fireside near Austin, as he was driving through on his way back to Standing Rock from Florida. When I contacted a few people, it turned out that the best place to have the fireside was in Killeen, which would be a treat for the small hard-working group there. Kevin decided to talk about the Lakota Messenger of God, the White Buffalo Calf Woman, and tied her existence to the coming of Bahá’u’lláh. It went over well.

In October 2021, Kevin came down from South Dakota to help a group of us celebrate Indigenous People’s Day, held on the grounds of the State Capitol in Austin, TX. Although he was the main attraction, in true Kevin fashion he highlighted everyone else and brought out the best in them. His granddaughters, of course, stole the show as they danced with him. The Spiritual Assembly of Austin provided support to the Indigenous People’s Day Committee, which included a wonderful dinner for all the performers. The event helped us gauge what the Indigenous people thought of the Bahá’í Faith. We are happy to report that several people made positive comments about knowing the Bahá’ís in Texas, especially in the area of San Antonio.

The most recent project I had with Kevin was in writing a book for youth about his mother, Patricia Locke. My book, “Warrior Grandma: The Story of Patricia Locke,” is now in print. Kevin encouraged me, helped me to accent the Lakota words, ensured that I explained Lakota culture correctly, took photos for me, and approved the final manuscript. He was very excited about this book and its goals: to teach about his mother, the Indigenous messengers, the beginnings of institutional racism, and, of course, the Bahá’í Faith. He and his mother were instrumental in researching Indigenous religion and Indigenous Messengers of God.

As we go forward in a world without Kevin on this plane, let us remember him in the manner that he honored us. Remember to be humble, to put others before ourselves, and to bring to the forefront the best in each other and in everyone we meet. 

Please pray for the Patricia Locke Foundation and all the work it does for children on the Standing Rock Reservation:  https://patricialockefoundation.org/

Littlebrave Beaston, Killeen/Austin, TX