Versoehnung und Heimkehr der DAKOTA in Winona

Winona Dakota Unity Alliance History - (continued) A new subcommittee was formed which became the future basis of the WDUA. Tribal representatives and subcommittee members met in Winona and on Dakota reservations to plan an event of reconciliation and homecoming. The result of the planning was the 1st Great Dakota Gathering and Homecoming, June 2004, shortly before the arrival of the flotilla.

Subcommittee members (now the WDUA) realized that truth and reconciliation were essential in order for the communities to come together. Education of the public about the history and culture of the Dakota people was vital as well. They recognized that this was a chance for the Dakota and the community of Winona to work together in understanding our commonalities, differences, and the true history from several perspectives while forging a new future. They also recognized the gravity and importance of what they were undertaking. The only blueprints for such an activity that were available were the South African model of truth and reconciliation procedures and the wacipi (powwow) organizational structure. This new committee worked with Dakota tribal and spiritual leaders as guides through the process. As a result, the 1st Gathering had the following components held at Lake Park, Winona:

1. A Saturday public truth and reconciliation forum attended by local, state, and federal representatives, clergy from Roman Catholic and Protestant churches, and Dakota and Winona community members.
2. A Sunday ecumenical service including Dakota and Winona clergy and music groups from Minneapolis.
3. Wacipi (powwow) with a Grand Entry on each day.
4. Moccasin Tournament
5. Four community meals
6. American Indian vendors
7. Professional American Indian singers and musicians