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Some Native Americans remember violence experienced by their ancestors through journeys across the lands where those events took place. They remember the Fort Robinson outbreak and Sand Creek Massacre with healing runs, the Wounded Knee Massacre with a horse ride and the Trail of Tears with a bike ride. What is the purpose of remembering these events through walks and rides? Do you think it is healing or harmful to retrace these trails and remember those atrocities?
Guests:
Lynette Two Bulls (Oglala Lakota) – director of Yellow Bird and coordinator of the Fort Robinson Outbreak Spiritual Run
Joseph Erb (Cherokee) – coordinato, Remember the Removal Bike Ride
Dr. Lisa Grayshield (Washoe) – associate professor in counseling and psychology, New Mexico State University
Dana Eldridge (Diné) – coordinator for Nihígaal Beé Iiná
I think everyone learns from the bike rides. They learn a nearly forgotten tragedy and how the Cherokee people persevered. The history lessons they learn opens up their minds to look and approach life differently. The time spent with others in this journey will help shape who they become in life.
I’m the new ride coordinator for the Trail of Tears Motorcycle Ride. I do it to remember my ancestors and to let everyone to remember the past so it won’t be repeated in the future.