In the heartland of America, a profound and ambitious project is taking shape, driven by the desire to memorialize a history often overlooked and misunderstood. Three South Dakota men, deeply connected to their Native American heritage, are spearheading an effort to construct a South Dakota Men Planning Native American Holocaust Monument. This monument aims to serve as a lasting tribute to the suffering and resilience of North American Indian tribes, drawing parallels to the atrocities of the Holocaust.
The driving forces behind this initiative are Bryan Williams and his father, Laurs Williams, both residents of Veblen, South Dakota, and Milton Quinn of Sisseton. All three are members of the Sisseton and Wahpeton Oyate, and they envision the monument as a symbol of remembrance and a catalyst for education and understanding. Their vision extends beyond their own tribal affiliations, encompassing the shared experiences of all North American Indian tribes.
The impetus for the monument stems from a deeply held belief that Native Americans endured a period of immense hardship and systematic oppression, akin to the Holocaust experienced by Jewish people during World War II. In a written statement, the men articulated their conviction: "We also had a holocaust on this continent that will never be forgotten by our people and needs to be immortalized in history." This statement underscores the urgency and significance they attach to the project.
While the project is still in its early stages, the men have identified several potential locations for the South Dakota Men Planning Native American Holocaust Monument. The Lake Traverse Reservation is a primary contender, but other sites near Flandreau and Huron are also under consideration. As of now, there is no firm schedule or established budget for the construction, but the team is actively pursuing grants, donations, and collaborative partnerships to bring their vision to fruition.
The genesis of the monument’s concept can be traced back over a decade, with Laurs Williams playing a pivotal role in its development. The central element of the monument is envisioned as a towering 20-story sculpture of a Native American woman cradling a deceased toddler. This poignant image is intended to symbolize the countless children who have perished since the arrival of Christopher Columbus in America, a stark reminder of the devastating impact of colonization and its enduring legacy.
Surrounding this central sculpture, the design incorporates structures aligned with the four cardinal directions. Each structure would be adorned with the faces of prominent and influential Native American leaders, immortalizing their contributions and leadership. This element aims to honor the individuals who fought for their people’s rights, sovereignty, and cultural preservation.
In addition to the monumental sculpture and directional structures, the plan includes a healing garden. This tranquil space is designed to provide visitors with an opportunity for reflection, contemplation, and personal healing. It will serve as a sanctuary where individuals can connect with the monument’s message, process their emotions, and find solace in the shared history and experiences of Native American people.
A particularly striking and somber element of Laurs Williams’ vision is the inclusion of 38 scaffolds, representing the mass hanging of 38 Dakota men in Mankato, Minnesota, in 1862. This tragic event, one of the largest mass executions in U.S. history, serves as a potent symbol of the injustices and brutality inflicted upon Native Americans. To further emphasize the symbolism, a steel noose will hang from each scaffold, serving as a stark reminder of the lives lost and the pain endured. This is a critical component in the South Dakota Men Planning Native American Holocaust Monument.
Bryan Williams emphasizes that the overarching goal of the project is to promote education and foster a deeper understanding of Native American culture, history, and contemporary issues. The men are actively seeking input and collaboration from various sources, including North American Indian tribes, Native American artists, and architects. This collaborative approach aims to ensure that the monument accurately and respectfully represents the diverse experiences and perspectives of Native American people.
To garner support and raise awareness, the three men are actively publicizing their idea and seeking funding through grants and donations. They are also engaged in discussions with state officials to explore the project’s potential impact on the local economy and tourism. These discussions include the possibility of establishing facilities at universities and airports to further enhance the educational outreach and accessibility of the monument.
The South Dakota Men Planning Native American Holocaust Monument represents a significant step towards acknowledging and memorializing the often-overlooked history of Native Americans in North America. By drawing parallels to the Holocaust, the project seeks to elevate awareness of the systematic oppression, cultural destruction, and loss of life experienced by indigenous populations. The monument aims to serve as a powerful reminder of the past, a catalyst for healing and reconciliation, and a beacon of hope for the future.
The project is more than just a monument; it is a statement. It is a declaration that the history of Native Americans will no longer be relegated to the margins of mainstream narratives. It is a commitment to ensuring that future generations understand the profound impact of colonization and the ongoing struggles faced by indigenous communities.
The vision of the Williams and Quinn is ambitious, and the challenges ahead are undoubtedly significant. Securing funding, navigating complex political landscapes, and ensuring that the monument accurately and respectfully represents the diverse experiences of Native American tribes will require unwavering dedication and collaborative partnerships.
However, the passion, determination, and unwavering commitment of the three South Dakota men suggest that this project has the potential to become a powerful and transformative symbol of remembrance, healing, and education. The South Dakota Men Planning Native American Holocaust Monument could very well become a landmark destination, attracting visitors from around the world who seek to learn about the history of Native Americans and to reflect on the enduring legacy of colonization. It is a journey of recognition and understanding that deserves support and attention. It hopes to immortalize the history, the struggle and the loss.