FOUNDER

Red Hawk Perkins, a fifth-generation Medicine Man of Houmas and Choctaw heritage, forged a path of profound significance by founding the Black Wolf Society.

Emancipated from his tribe in 1968, Red Hawk’s vision transcended tribal boundaries, recognizing the inherent unity of all humanity. Sent by his elders to learn about humans, he immersed himself in the diverse tapestry of New Orleans and its surrounding areas, spending six months of the year working and the remainder among locals, embodying the principles of the Toltec four agreements popularized by Don Miguel Ruiz.

Red Hawk’s presence in New Orleans resonated deeply, earning him a reputation as not only a Medicine Man but also as a healer and mystic. His commitment to bridging cultures and nurturing interconnectedness underscores the ethos of Black Wolf Society, which seeks to honor indigenous wisdom while embracing the universal truths that unite us all.

With a legacy rooted in healing, spirituality, and community, Red Hawk’s vision continues to guide the society’s mission of fostering healing and understanding among all members of the human family.

LEGACY

Sunni Gail Shafer Perkins perpetuates her husband, Red Hawk Perkins heritage through his indigenous customs and sacred artistry. Together, they devoted themselves to fostering and empowering their community, hosting numerous open circles where hearts find solace, and forming a collective honoring each other’s path of self-discovery and healing. 

The enduring legacy of Red Hawk Perkins finds expression through a diverse array of artistic mediums, from paintings and drawings to sacred tools and recycled materials, both man-made and natural. Among these creations, his spirit masks, crafted from local Queen Anne palm pieces, stand as poignant embodiments of his energies and intentions.

Inspired by her late husband’s artistic vision, Sunni Gail Shafer Perkins carries forth his legacy by continuing to create spirit masks independently. Additionally, members of the Black Wolf Society, including Sunny Robichaux, Kylen Laurel Shea, and Elisa Standridge, pay homage to Red Hawk’s artistic spirit by crafting their own palm-based creations.

Through these artistic endeavors, Red Hawk’s essence lives on, inspiring a community united by a shared reverence for creativity, spirituality, and the natural world.