Copyright © 2001 NLThomas
All Rights Reserved

The Minority Resource and Cultural Center in Watertown prays and sheds unseen tears for those who lost their lives in the terrorist attack against America. And we feel the pain and loss of the survivors who lost their loved ones, and we pray for the strength that is needed for all Americans to stand together and become united as one nation. And, as director of the center, I share our prayers and thoughts with you as we ourselves, the American Indians, struggle against an evil force within the state - unseen hatred and racism.

"Oh, Creator of all people, let there be a mighty flow of justice throughout this state and America and may the angels of freedom, equality, understanding, humility, acceptance, respect and love and peace enter into the hearts and minds of all Americans. Let the evilness of hatred, oppression, stereotyping and violent thoughts forever leave souls and free us from this evilness. For the great book of the creator sends us a message that anger and fear breed racial hatred, and in return, breed violence. Oh, creator of earth and heaven, look down upon everyone, and may we listen to your peaceful reassurances that the deceased ones have journeyed home to your safe haven. And let us be reassured that when the time comes, that we too shall find sanction in your precious land where there shall be no reference to the color of our skin, nor the fighting over land which belongs to you only, and let us be reassured, father, that through your words, we know that the mighty stream of justice and acceptance shall be finally given to all people."

And finally, creator of earth and ruler of your land we call America, bless our governor in this state, and bless and be very close to President Bush and our American leaders and let all Americans be reassured that fear and evilness can and will be conquered and evilness shall not diminish our spirits or minds.

Betty Ann Gross, M.S.

Sisseton-Whapeton Sioux Tribe of the Lake Traverse

Reservation

Watertown