‘It’s a good ride’
Final Dakota 38+2 Ride makes its way through Marshall area
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RUSSELL -- It was a journey of 330 miles on horseback through biting cold and snow. But the participants in the Dakota 38+2 Ride said that it was also a chance to bring healing and shed light on a dark moment in history.
On Monday, more than 100 riders and about 67 horses traveled to Russell on their way from Lower Brule, South Dakota, to Mankato. The ride remembers 40 Dakota men who were hanged in Mankato after the U.S.-Dakota War of 1862.
"The ride came out of a dream," said Wilfred Keeble, eagle staff carrier for the Dakota 38+2 Ride. In 2005, spiritual leader Jim Miller had a dream of a journey by horse to Minnesota. In the years since then, the ride has become an annual event.
"When it started, I don't think anyone realized it would be a whole movement," said Todd Finney, as the riders started arriving at the Russell Community Center.
After stopping in Russell on Monday, the riders will continue through Marshall today. Marshall and Southwest Minnesota State University community members will be serving meals for the riders.
Ride leaders and elders have said that this year will be the last for the Dakota 38+2 Wokiksuye Ride. In a statement, ride leaders said the decision to end the ride "came through long periods of prayer and understanding that the sacrifice of the riders and the horse nation has been accepted." The statement went on to say the riders' prayer "is that the deep wounds of hatred will continue to be healed and transformed into love for all humanity with true forgiveness."
In the statement, ride leaders thanked the many supporters and organizations that have made the Dakota 38+2 Ride possible, from churches and tribal governments to schools and individuals. "The sacrifices made by the cooks, nonprofit organizations and hotels providing food, hay and shelter along the trail will never be forgotten," the statement said.
Ride participants said knowing that the Dakota 38+2 Ride would be coming to an end brought up a mix of emotions. Yamni Roach said he had been participating in the ride for about 10 years, and had good memories of it. The ride also focused on Native American culture and history.
"When we go to all these places, they point out why they're significant," Roach said.
Finney said the Dakota 38+2 Ride has brought participants closer together. Participants in the ride include multiple generations, from elders to children.
Keeble said he has been motivated by seeing younger generations taking part in the ride. It's been a good experience, he said.
"It's a good ride," Keeble said.