Copyright © 2000 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

The Yankton Sioux Tribe returned to court on January 3-4. Rather than addressing its compliance with the Native American Graves Protection and Repatriation Act, the Corps of Engineers lawyer's questioning of the tribal chairwoman and spiritual leader went deep into tribal governmental and spiritual affairs (my observation).

The temporary restraining order was extended to the 11th of January.

Temperatures have dropped considerably, making the encampment's vigil over the remains more challenging. Tribal members are rallying to support the needs of the camp. This issue crosses ethnic lines, touching many people's sense of decency. State legislators have traveled the rough roads to visit the camp. Members of a local church have brought soup and sandwiches.

A father was concerned for his son at the camp, inadequately dressed for the bitter cold, but concluded that "he would come back a better person." The cold, north wind has a way of doing that.

I am quite humbled by their quiet determination, their unity, and spiritual strength.

Prayers for the Ihanktonwan,

/S/Rosalie Little Thunder