Our middle school youth and adult sponsors left this morning for a week of accompaniment on the Lake Traverse Reservation at Sisseton, SD. Read more below about the racial disparity between whites and natives, particularly in the Sisseton community, and why our group’s accompaniment experience is important. Please pray for them to accompany with an open heart and mind and to learn from those they serve.
Why is Serving Lake Traverse Reservation and Sisseton Important…
Like many small communities, drugs and alcohol plague Sisseton. The tribe has done an amazing job trying to create infrastructure, like the plastic bag factory, however, unemployment and poverty are still problems on the reservation as well. One of the most obvious issues is the racial disparity between whites and natives, particularly in the community of Sisseton. There is a clear divide both economically and socially between the two different people groups. For example, the Sisseton High School is made up of mostly white students, while the Tiospa Zina Tribal High School in Agency Village is predominantly native. The school mascot at Sisseton High School is the “Redmen,” symbolized by the face of an Indian chief. The two cultures clash when it comes to the offensive mascot. The “Not-Your-Mascot Campaign” has grown in Sisseton and Agency Village to protest the mascot and break down some of the barriers that separate the white community from the native community.
Your Serving Matters…
• You will bring encouragement, support and fresh energy. You will serve the community by meeting tangible needs and providing a safe and welcoming environment for kids in the community who otherwise wouldn’t have anywhere to go.
• During your time in the community, you will be exposed to a wide range of people from many walks of life. By listening to stories and engaging in meaningful conversation, your perspectives will be challenged and shaped in new ways.
• Everyone has their own perceptions of the Native community. You will have the chance to share what you learn about the Lake Traverse reservation and the tribe, talk about the incredible things you see happening in the area and be a part of the on-going work God is doing. You also get to serve as bridge builders between the white and native community in Sisseton.
