Social Justice in Action – FUS Volunteer Opportunity
The Dakota 38+2 Reconciliation Ride began as a way to promote reconciliation between Native Americans and non-Native people. In 1862, at the end of the U.S.-Dakota War, 38 Dakota men were hung from a single platform in Mankato. Two Sioux leaders, Little Six and Medicine Bottle, escaped to Canada but were later captured and returned to Fort Snelling where they were hanged in 1865. The 330-mile ride begins in Lower Brule, South Dakota on December 10th and ends at Reconciliation Park in Mankato on December 26th, the site of the largest mass hanging in United States history. Ceremonies at the Park focus on prayers and presentations on community healing and Dakota culture. After the ceremonies, riders and Native and non-Native community members are invited to the closing lunch, this year held at the AmericInn Conference/Event Center in Mankato. FUS members and friends have prepared and served the closing lunch for many years and will participate again this year. We will need volunteers at FUS and in Mankato.
Contact Shelley Shreffler () if you are able to volunteer or if you have questions.