The discussion about gangs and violence brought me to reflect on the progress and bumps experienced over the past several years in the American Indian community. We have made great progress in the American Indian community, in partnership with many folks, that has greatly contributed to the positive trends experienced in south Minneapolis(primarily third precinct). One of the great motivators, I believe, that has sparked a surge of energy in reestablishing and strengthening the American Indian community(and community at large) is the recognition that the community was becoming primarily a geographic location. Residents, police, leadership, business owners, and folks who worked in the community did not know each other. People either moved or stayed in their homes. Police stayed in their cars. Folks stayed in their offices. Fear, crime and danger had removed unity from community. And if you are not familiar with the American Indian community, relationships are key to survival and happiness. Kinship is very important to Indian people. So we methodically returned to what we know wellârelationships. People, young and old, once again took time to meet, talk, mourn, pray, laugh, hug and remember. People, non-Indian and Indian, began to work together and in many cases establish first time relationships. Police and many others were invited to every community function, not simply as police but as friends and relatives. People broke bread together, honored each other and supported each other. The community was consistent in hosting talking circles, community gatherings, planning discussions, strategy meetings and celebrations. Top-down, bottom-upâit was all welcome, as long as relationships were again being formed. People at all levels and abilities went to work. Relationships, relationships, relationships. Wonderful partnership combinations involving businesses, organizations, clinics, schools, housing, development, residents, police, government etc. were established. An amazing matrix of contacts and relationships was created. Indian residents were empowered, Indian leadership was consistent, and Indian energy and commitment was undaunted. Most importantly, an amazing degree of unison was displayed. Today, many community driven efforts continue. The road has not been without bumps and bruises, but overall the commitment and willingness to maintain relationships a focus. We have much to do, but as we continue to add to our extended communal family, Indian and non-Indian, we continue to move in the right direction. I share these word to encourage my relatives to continue this difficult work. As our Lakota/Dakota relatives say, Mitakuye Oyasin, We are All Related. Justin Kii Huenemann Metropolitan Urban Indian Directors Resident of Bryant Neighborhood
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