Our Mission
Rock The Rez aims to empower Indigenous girls and LGBTQIA2S+ youth to build self-esteem and find their voices through unique programming that combines music education and performance, empowerment and social justice workshops, creative collaboration, positive role models and leadership skill building. Rock the Rez is committed to serving the Rosebud, Pine Ridge, Bemidji, and Minneapolis/St. Paul Indigenous communities!
Our Camp
Rock The Rez in essence is a 5 day summer camp. At our core, we are so much more. Each day campers participate in instrument instruction (bass, guitar, drums, or vocals), two unique workshops presented by community members, and band practice. Campers and volunteers share two meals together throughout the day and create a safe space through courageous conversations and total self acceptance.
Our History
Our camp began in 2016 as Girls Rock Pine Ridge in Pine Ridge South Dakota. In 2021 we changed our name to Rock The Rez! In 2023 we expanded our camp to include Rosebud, SD. In 2025 we hosted camps in Pine Ridge and Rosebud South Dakota as well as Lower Sioux, Bemidji, and Twin Cities Minnesota!
our vision
Rock The Rez was founded under the goal of music accessibility. We believe that music education should be available to all, and that safe spaces should be provided for that education. Our goal is to amplify the voices of Indigenous girls, non-binary, gender fluid, and LGBTQIA2S+ youth as many places as possible!
OUr Acknowledgement
Rock the Rez empowers Indigenous youth to use their voices in a positive way. The Lakota, Dakota, and Nakota people of this area have cultivated the land and survived unspeakable acts of colonization, and our children are the celebration of the survival of our people. Music is just the undercurrent of a movement at Rock the Rez, together we create an environment that holds space for the voices of Indigenous youth, Indigenous creation, and the next generation of empowered, strong, and empathetic Indigenous leaders.