歪歪漫画

A replica of an 18-foot tall sculpture, called 鈥淣ot Afraid to Look,'' is making a 1,250-mile journey from the Santa Fe, New Mexico area to its new home at the Giiwedinong Treaty Rights & Culture Museum in Park Rapids.

The installation of the sculpture at the museum, located downtown at the intersection of 101 2nd Street W. and U.S. Hwy. 71, is planned for May 16-17.

The original sculpture was inspired by an effigy pipe originally carved and used at the end of the 17th century. It was erected at Sacred Stone Camp in Standing Rock during Dakota Access Pipeline protests.

鈥淭he water protector movement emerged in northern Minnesota and at Standing Rock during conflicts between Native people and the Energy Transfer Partners and Enbridge Oil pipelines,鈥� museum executive director Sarah Littleredfeather said in a news release.

鈥淭housands of people, including many from Minnesota, supported the Lakota Nation on the Standing Rock Reservation. This was an inspirational, diverse and widespread web of solidarity. This sculpture, which symbolizes the extraordinary tenacity and resolve of indigenous communities, is a monument to their unwavering spirit and solidarity as water protectors. The exhibit at the museum is a powerful testimony to the continuous battle for indigenous rights and environmental justice.鈥�

Littleredfeather said that 鈥淣ot Afraid to Look鈥� inspires change and represents generations of courage.

鈥淏y shedding light on uncomfortable truths and encouraging honest conversations, this piece serves as a catalyst for positive transformation and healing,鈥� she said. 鈥淚ts impact extends far beyond its initial creation, making it a powerful messenger of social change.鈥�

The museum showcases diverse exhibits, including historical and modern treaties, cultural art and insights into the Anishinaabe way of life.

It also is dedicated to documenting the Water Protector Movement along with a wide range of other social movements.

On Friday, May 17, from 5:30-7 p.m., founding members and 鈥渨ater protector鈥� communities are invited to meet the sculptor, Charles Rencountre.

On Saturday, May 18, from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., there will be many activities, including an opening ceremony with the city of Park Rapids and Park Rapids Arts & Culture Advisory Commission, featuring a drum group honor song and festivities.

For more information about 鈥淣ot Afraid to Look鈥� and events go to .