A group of Dakota representatives called the Unity Riders met with Newtown's Second Company Governor's Horse Guard Monday, a meeting meant to establish a spirit of friendship between the sons of Sitting Bull and one of the oldest cavalries in the nation.
"We're all bonded in the brotherhood of the horse," said Lt. Ken Fay of the horse guard. "But in our nation's history, the Dakota and cavalry and have a checkered past. Today, we've met on the same field in the spirit of unity of friendship."
The riders met the cavalry before a crowd of hundreds at Horse Guard headquarters at noon Monday. After greetings and a presentation ceremony, the two groups briefly rode side-by-side. (See video.)
About 200 residents stayed for the welcome ceremony after the meeting. Sandy Hook resident Iris Baldino brought a sign reading "Mitakuye Oyasin," which means "All My Relations" in the Dakota tongue.
"They were doing a nice thing for us," said Cole. "The symbolism of the unity ride is so beautiful and generous. They're a people who have suffered, and for them to visit us is such a gift."
Find out what's happening in Newtownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
"They are regarded as refugees in their lands in Canada, and have no status as human beings," said Nelson. "This is the first time they've been back in this area for hundreds of years ... This ride is for peace, the Earth and all living relations."
During the ceremony, Rep. Debra Lee Hovey presented the Connecticut state flag to the riders, along with a citation from the Newtown delegation on congratulations to Dakota nation unity riders "to bring healing and hope back into the community." The Second company governors horse guard appointed the Unity Riders honorary members.
"As a Dakota nation, I didn't expect to meet with the army like this," Dakota Chief Gus Hieghele told the crowd to laughter. "But we're here for the present and future."The Dakota will head to the United Nations to advocate for environmental protection for their lands and others.
"We're riding for all of you," said Hieghele.
Find out what's happening in Newtownwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
Get more local news delivered straight to your inbox. Sign up for free Patch newsletters and alerts.
