PALESTINE

U of M says it’s committed to combating antisemitism amid federal probes

Estelle Timar-Wilcox / MPR News — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 17:46:47 GMT

MINNEAPOLIS — The University of Minnesota says it’s working to address antisemitism on campus amid federal investigations spurred by protests against Israel and the recent immigration arrest of a pro-Palestinian organizer.

U of M President Rebecca Cunningham outlined the U’s steps to combat antisemitism in an email to students and staff Monday, March 10.

“There is absolutely no place for antisemitism at the University of Minnesota,” she wrote. “In accordance with our institutional values, we firmly and aggressively reject any and all forms of hatred directed toward members of our Jewish community.”

The university is one of 60 schools under investigation by the U.S. Department of Education. The Department of Justice announced plans to visit the U of M — along with nine other universities — as part of its own investigation into the school.

The investigations are a part of an executive order President Donald Trump signed in January that seeks to “investigate and punish anti-Jewish racism in leftist, anti-American colleges and universities.”

The moves have alarmed pro-Palestinian groups and free speech advocates who say the federal government is cracking down on the right to protest.

The U’s plan to address antisemitism

In her statement to the campus, Cunningham pointed to recent efforts to combat antisemitism. She named improvements to the school’s bias reporting and response system, and said the school has joined the Hillel Campus Climate Initiative, a nationwide project by the Jewish organization Hillel.

She also pointed to efforts to clarify protest policies. The University rolled out guidelines over the summer reminding students to limit sizes, locations and hours of demonstrations. Students violating the rules can face suspension, arrest and other penalties.

On Friday, the Board of Regents is expected to consider a resolution that could limit the kinds of public statements the university’s institutes, centers and academic departments can make. It would bar “institutional statements addressing matters of public concern or public interest.”

Richard Painter, a professor at the U, is urging the regents to approve the resolution. In 2023, Painter and former regent Michael Hsu filed a complaint with the feds over statements critical of Israel that were posted to a College of Liberal Arts departmental website.

Painter suggested that passing the resolution Friday, among other actions, could insulate the university from federal funding cuts as a result of the investigations. Others on campus warn the resolution would muzzle faculty and create a slippery slope toward authoritarianism.

The Trump administration recently pulled $400 million in funding from Columbia University over antisemitism claims stemming from last year’s prominent protests on the campus.

Protesters push back

Trump also warned Monday that he plans to crack down on individual protesters after federal agents arrested a Palestinian activist who helped lead protests at Columbia. ICE agents detained Mahmoud Khalil in New York on Saturday and took him to a federal immigration jail in Louisiana.

Khalil is a legal U.S. resident; a federal judge has ordered that he not be deported yet to give the court time to consider a legal challenge.

The investigations and arrests are raising alarms for protesters and civil rights advocates. The Minnesota Anti-War Committee led a protest Tuesday evening to push back against the arrest and the federal crackdown on students.

“We are concerned that UMN will follow suit and submit information to allow the detention of MN students, faculty, and staff for participating in protests,” Anti-War Committee organizer Meredith Aby said in a statement. “The racist targeting of Khalil aims to instill fear in pro-Palestine activists as well as a warning to others at all university campuses. We are organizing this protest to show community support for the pro-Palestine student movement.”

University leaders recently said the school would only share student information if it is required by a subpoena or court order, as has always been the case. They also say campus law enforcement officers do not participate in immigration enforcement.

This story was originally published on MPRNews.org
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Biden formally apologizes over Native American boarding schools

Gabriella Borter and Kanishka Singh / Reuters — Fri, 25 Oct 2024 19:50:27 GMT

LAVEEN VILLAGE, Arizona — President Joe Biden formally apologized on Friday for the U.S. government's role in running abusive Native American boarding schools for more than 150 years, and was heckled at the event over his support for Israel's war in Gaza.

"This to me is one of the most consequential things I've ever had an opportunity to do in my whole career," Biden said in his apology at an outdoor football and track field in Laveen Village, Arizona, near Phoenix.

"It's a sin on our soul. ... I formally apologize."

Several hundred people attended, many of them in traditional tribal dress. They cheered as Biden apologized for the generational trauma faced by the Native American community due to the boarding schools across the country.

Biden faced a brief interruption when a pro-Palestinian protester shouted: "How can you apologize for a genocide while committing a genocide in Palestine?"

The president replied, "There is a lot of innocent people being killed and it has to stop."

U.S. support for Israel's wars in Gaza and Lebanon after the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attack on Israel has led to months of demonstrations across the United States. Rights advocates have demanded an arms embargo against Israel as tens of thousands of civilians have been killed in the region, and Palestinians in the Gaza Strip have grappled with hunger and disease.

Israel and Washington deny genocide allegations brought against Israel at the World Court in relation to Gaza, and Washington has maintained its support for its ally.

Friday's trip marked Biden's first time visiting Indian Country while in office and is part of his effort to cement his legacy in his final months in the White House.

Arizona is also one of the seven battleground states in a tight race for the Nov. 5 U.S. election in which Democratic Vice President Kamala Harris faces Republican former President Donald Trump.

U.S. Interior Secretary Deb Haaland, the first Native American to be a cabinet secretary, had launched an investigation to recognize the troubled legacy of federal Native American boarding school policies.

An Interior Department investigative report released in July found that at least 973 children died in these schools. Haaland's family members were among the children forced into the boarding schools.

From 1819 through the 1970s, the United States implemented policies establishing and supporting hundreds of American Indian boarding schools across the U.S. Their purpose was to culturally assimilate Native Americans by forcibly removing them from their families, communities, religions and cultural beliefs.

Like the United States, Australia, New Zealand and Canada have in recent years reviewed past abuse toward Indigenous communities, including children in schools.

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Gov. Tim Walz interrupted by pro-Palestine protester during Arizona appearance

Hunter Dunteman — Wed, 11 Sep 2024 18:25:52 GMT

MESA, Ariz. — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz was seemingly unfazed when he was interrupted by protesters during an appearance in Arizona on Tuesday evening.

Ahead of a Donald Trump-Kamala Harris debate watch party at the Mesa Convention Center, Walz spoke Tuesday evening, Sept. 10, before a ballroom of approximately 550 guests.

Approximately two minutes into his speech, screaming broke out in the room.

As Walz said “[Harris] stood up to powerful, greedy corporate interests,” a woman in the audience began screaming.

“But she won’t stop genocide," the woman yelled toward Walz.

While looking between the protester and others in the crowd, Walz continued speaking over the woman, who yelled indistinguishably for more than a minute before she was pushed out of the ballroom by as many as 11 people.

Video footage from a Phoenix television outlet, which was broadcasting the event live, showed the woman displaying a Palestinian flag, which someone in the audience attempted to forcibly remove from her hands.

Walz only stopped speaking for a moment during the woman’s removal, as the crowd chanted “USA” in an attempt to drown the woman out.

According to campaign pool reporters, two protesters were outside the venue ahead of Walz’s speech waving Palestinian flags, though it's unclear if either person outside the venue made it into the event.

It’s not the first time the Harris-Walz campaign has been met with protesters critical of the vice president’s stance on the war in Gaza.

Ahead of the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, pro-Palestine protesters interrupted a welcome party at Navy Pier. At least one protester made it on stage and accessed a microphone.

"150,000 people are dead," the protester yelled. "You are funding a genocide. The Harris-Biden administration keeps sending money to Israel."

Crowd members were heard chanting “Free, free Palestine” as the protester was removed from the stage.

https://x.com/InskeepJd83185/status/1825700655438209379

Outside the DNC’s main sessions across town, thousands of pro-Palestine protesters occupied a park near the United Center, where the convention was held. Using primarily loudspeakers and poster boards to share their message, most of the protesters accused Democrats of funding genocide.

Inside the United Center, at least one protester was removed after unfurling a banner with Palestinian flags on it.

Chicago Police said 74 protesters were arrested during the four-day convention.

Harris has repeatedly sided with Israel, but said in August that the loss of life in Gaza is “devastating.”

"Let me be clear, I will always stand up for Israel's right to defend itself and I will always ensure Israel has the ability to defend itself," the vice president said during the DNC. "At the same time, what has happened in Gaza in the past 10 months is devastating. So many innocent lives lost. The scale of suffering is heartbreaking.”

The Biden administration has been pushing for a cease-fire deal.

In a Sept. 7 interview with a Michigan radio station, Walz said pro-Palestine protesters are using their voices for “all the right reasons,” but also condemned Hamas, which he has called on social media a “brutal terrorist organization.”

The anguish of losing a child is something no family should have to endure. Gwen and I send our deepest condolences to the Goldberg-Polin family, after Hamas’ murder of their son Hersh.

Hamas is a brutal terrorist organization — and we condemn their continued atrocities against…
— Tim Walz (@Tim_Walz) September 2, 2024

The remainder of Walz’s speech on Tuesday went off without additional disruptions.

After traveling to more than two dozen cities in more than a dozen states since he was named as Harris’ running mate, the campaign as of midday Thursday had not released additional information on when or where Walz is scheduled to appear next.

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Live updates from the 2024 Democratic National Convention

Hunter Dunteman — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 00:00:40 GMT

Here's the latest from the 2024 Democratic National Convention:

Tuesday, Aug. 20

7 p.m.

NOTE: The United Center is experiencing significant internet connectivity issues. Check back later for a recap.

Roll call has begun, with each state announcing their delegations votes. It's easy to tell which delegations dressed to fit a theme of their state — Wisconsin's delegation is wearing Packer-style chesseheads, while Kansas is wearing Kansas City Chiefs gear.

1:45 p.m.

More than two hours before doors open, and six hours before a planned appearance by Kamala Harris and Tim Walz, Milwaukee TV station TMJ4 reports a "sizeable crowd" has formed outside the Fiserv Forum — the same venue that hosted this year's Republican National Convention and a Republican primary debate.

Milwaukee is approximately 90 miles north of Chicago. Both Harris and Walz are expected to return to Chicago after the Milwaukee rally.

12:30 p.m.

Multiple motorcades of various lengths and sizes began moving around downtown Chicago shortly after midday.

10:10 a.m.

Calling himself a pro-union, pro-choice, pro-public education and a pro-diversity governor, Kentucky's Andy Beshear gave his "full and total support" to Tim Walz. Beshear was rumored to be in Harris' top-two choices for a running mate. He committed to helping ensure the Harris-Walz ticket will win the election.

10 a.m.

Navy veteran and former NASA astronaut Sen. Mark Kelly, D-AZ, shared that his wife, former Rep. Gabby Giffords, was in the same freshman congressional class with Walz. Kelly joked that Giffords liked Walz so much that he questioned which one was Giffords' first choice for companionship.

Kelly called his service in the Senate "the most important job" he's ever had, using women's rights as a reason to vote Democrats into office. "I can not imagine what it will be like if Donald Trump gets back in office. ... I have a 3-year-old granddaughter who now has fewer rights, and will have fewer rights as an adult, than my mother or grandmother did."

He called on Democrats to continue the momentum that the party has for the remaining 77 days until Election Day.

9:10 a.m.

With an introduction from Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller, Sen. Tina Smith followed McCollum's speech by pointing out her belief that Tim Walz is an excellent candidate not only due to his policies, but also due to his humanity.

She said she's seen the excitement that surrounds a Harris-Walz ticket, and that the energy isn't a "sugar rush" that will fade — rather it's here to stay through Election Day.

9 a.m.

After a speech from Brooklyn Park City Councilman Tony McGarvey, Rep. Betty McCollum spoke on the state’s tribal relations, pointing out that some states including Indiana, Illinois and Ohio have no federally-recognized American Indian reservations. “I am so pleased that I get to work with these fantastic tribal nations [in Minnesota].

She also focused on the DFL’s desire to protect blue seats and flip red seats in the Minnesota House and Senate to secure a progressive future. “If we’re going to keep moving forward like we’ve been able to in Minnesota in the future, we have to protect the house and the senate so our governor can continue to sign legislation,” she said.

8:45 a.m.

Rep. Ilhan Omar took to the stage to a lengthy applause. She sees Minnesota and the country as a better place to live under the Democrats that have been elected to serve on the state and federal level.

She called on ending gun violence in America and praised Minnesota’s policy for feeding school children and efforts to increase wages. Omar also took a shot at Republicans, saying: “It is joyful to not campaign on hate and divisiveness and anger and bigotry.”

8:20 a.m.

Chair of the Democratic National Committee Jaime Harrison spoke, crediting the Minnesota DFL for “controlling everything right now.” Tim Walz currently serves as chair of the Democratic Governors Association, Peggy Flanagan serves as chair of Democratic Lieutenant Governors Association, and DFL Chairman Ken Martin serves as president of the Association of State Democratic Committees and vice-chair of both the Democratic National Committee.

Harrison said he’s “so proud” of Minnesota’s Democrats, and that he’s excited to see a country with “Coach Tim Walz” as vice president and a Minnesota overseen by Flanagan.

8 a.m.

Michigan Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist speaks first, saying the "whole country is getting introduced to the Midwest" due to the rise of Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz and Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.

March for Our Lives founder David Hogg said he never saw himself getting into politics because he didn't think anything would ever actually get done — but added that Walz is one person who got his attention. He said it's "shameful" that other states with larger Democratic majorities have failed to implement progressive policies like Minnesota has.

"More than that, Gov. Walz has been able to deliver. I don't care what you've done on the campaign trial, I care what you do in office," Hogg said. "[Minnesota is] passing gun laws and delivering over $50 million to address gun violence through the Legislature."

7:35 p.m.

Good morning from the Fairmont Hotel in downtown Chicago.

Minnesota's delegation to the DNC is meeting for a second day of breakfast. Tuesday's speaker lineup for the gathering of Democrats include Rep. Ilhan Omar and Sen. Tina Smith, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, retired astronaut and Arizona Sen. Mark Kelly, Shakopee Mdewakanton Sioux Community Chairman Cole Miller and more.

DFL Chair Ken Martin teases the possibility of any number of surprise guests today.

Monday, Aug. 19

11:29 p.m.

Joe Biden spoke for just shy of an hour, ending his speech at 11:18 p.m. Kamala Harris and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff briefly joined the Bidens on stage to exchange hugs.

Following a benediction, Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan gaveled out the session at 11:29 p.m.

10:25 p.m.

After a heartfelt introduction from his daughter, President Joe Biden had to wipe away a tear before making his way to the podium. Before he could get a word out, he was met with roughly five minutes of applause, which didn’t help his waterworks.

Chants of “We love Joe” overpowered the president, who couldn’t help but smile and thank the tens of thousands of Democrats gathered at the United Center.

“I love you,” he told the crowd, which yielded an even louder response, followed by chants of “Thank you Joe.”

Roughly five minutes into his speech, protesters in the lowest level of the United Center unfurled a banner and began shouting. Nearby delegates began chanting until security confiscated the banner.

It didn’t appear as though the president — or most of the venue — noticed.

“I made a commitment to you that I’d be a president for all Americans, whether you voted for me or not,” Biden said, as more chants thanking him broke out. “Thank Kamala, too.”

Biden touched on everything his administration has done, ranging from the COVID-19 response and economic rebuilding to capping insulin costs and investing in infrastructure. He added that now’s the time for Democrats to ban assault weapons and demand universal background checks for firearm purchases.

“It’s been the honor of my lifetime to serve as your president. I love my job, but I love my country more,” Biden said, denying that he feels any anger toward those who encouraged him to step down. “Elect Kamala and Tim president and vice president of America. … I promise I’ll be the best volunteer the Harris and Walz campaign has ever seen.”

“America, I gave my best to you,” he added with glassy eyes.

10:10 p.m.

First Lady Jill Biden took the stage. After being married to Joe Biden for nearly five decades, she opened her speech by sharing moments that she realized she fell in love with him all over again, including the day he decided to drop out of the presidential race and endorse Kamala Harris.

In a speech that lasted just a few minutes, the First Lady said she's excited for the future to after seeing the number of Democrats gathered at the United Center.

8:50 p.m.

Former Secretary of State and 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton took the stage, and was met with applause louder than the speakers could transmit her voice. She made multiple attempts to quiet the crowd so she could speak.

"There's a crowd of energy in this room, just like there is across this country," she said. "Something is happening in America, you can feel it.

Her speech began with thanking President Joe Biden, saying he "brought dignity, decency and confidence back to the White House." The line was met with an outbreak of "Thank you Joe" chants from the crowd.

8 p.m.

Vice President Kamala Harris made a surprise appearance on the stage, and was the met with uproarious cheers from the now nearly-full United Center. She spoke briefly, sharing her gratitude to President Joe Biden for the past four years.

6:30 p.m.

Flanagan returned to the stage a second time, praising Gov. Tim Walz's job performance in Minnesota, adding that he always brings snacks to meetings. "Tim Walz always brings something for me, and as Vice President, he'll always bring something for you."

In a sharp turn, Flanagan said her brother was the second person to die from COVID-19 in Tennessee in 2020, but said the Biden-Harris administration and the Walz administration saved lives.

After an abrupt ending to her speech, a video played on the center video board criticizing Donald Trump's COVID-19 response during his presidency. The crowd booed.

6:15 p.m.

Minyon Moore, chair of the 2024 Democratic National Convention Committee, held a roll call vote to ceremoniously confirm Tim Walz as the party's vice presidential nominee. The voice vote was unanimous.

6:01 p.m.

Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan kept her opening remarks brief before introducing Rep. Maxine Waters, D-CA. The two exchanged a hug before Flanagan left the stage.

Waters reflected on the positive changes America has seen, specifically in terms of racial equality in politics, since the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party and NAACP challenged delegate selection processes that excluded people of color from serving as delegates.

"Now we can ask ourselves, is this America?" Waters said. "You're damn right it is."

5:54 p.m.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson: "Gov. Tim Walz will never shrink from standing up for our democracy and from those in need."

5:33 p.m.

The session was opened by Democratic National Committee Chair Jaime Harrison and convention committee Chair Minyon Moore. An invocation, the pledge of allegiance, the national anthem and more followed.

5:30 p.m.

Delegates from across the United States are beginning to take their seats. Minnesota's delegation is seated stage left, roughly halfway across the arena. They're neighbored by South Dakota's delegation.

Monday's evening was supposed to be called to order at 5:15 p.m., according to a calendar shared by DNC officials. Nobody has taken the stage, yet.

4:20 p.m.

The line to enter the security perimeter rivals the line for most amusement park rides.

I've been in line for more than 20 minutes, and it's barely moving. Plus, it's hot.

3:30 p.m.

Approaching the United Center, police presence is strong, as is the presence of protesters, hundreds of whom are stationed at a nearby park.

Bicyclists toting Palestine flags are weaving through vehicles in traffic jams.

Protesters don't appear to be disrupting the flow of traffic, however, and many are chatting with police officers.

Closer to the arena, protesters are less visible, and pedestrians are holding signs thanking President Joe Biden via posters.

12:15 p.m.

DNC officials released Monday's speaker list in full. Following an introduction from DNC Committee Chairwoman Minyon Moore and DNC Chairman Jamie Harrison, the following individuals will speak in the following order:

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson; Minnesota Lt. Gov Peggy Flanagan; Rep. Lauren Underwood, D-IL; Rep. Robert Garcia, D-CA.

Following those speeches is a joint address from union leaders, including Lee Saunders, April Verrett, Brent Booker, Kenneth Cooper, Claude Cummings Jr., and Elizabeth Shuler.

Then, speeches will continue with Micigan State Sen. Mallory McMorrow; Sec. Gina Raimondo; Gov. Kathy Hochul, D-NY; Union president Shawn Fain; Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-NY; former Sec. Hillary Clinton; Rep. James Clyburn, D-SC; Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-MD; Rep. Jasmine Crockett, D-TX; Rep. Grace Meng, D-NY; joint remarks from Texas, Louisiana and Kentucky residents; Gov. Andy Beshear, D-KY; Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-GA, and Sen. Chris Coons, D-DE.

The evening’s speaker list will be capped off with First Lady Jill Biden before Ashley Biden introduces President Joe Biden for the final speech.

The DNC clarified that the speaker list is subject to change.

11 a.m.

Some speakers are getting a feel for the main stage ahead of tonight's main session of the DNC. CNN reported live on TV that 2016 Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton and current Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff have appeared on stage.

President Joe Biden, First Lady Dr. Jill Biden have been scheduled to speak Monday night, alongside Hillary Clinton, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and others.

Monday's main session of the DNC will gavel in shortly after 5 p.m. Monday and run until shortly after 10 p.m.

9 a.m.

Sen. Amy Klobuchar took the stage as the final speaker for the morning, touting Harris’ ability to unite the Democratic Party “in literally two days” after Joe Biden dropped out of the race. She also recalled the waves of emotion she felt when speculation grew surrounding Walz as an option for vice president.

“We get our Vikings mentality,” Klobuchar joked, explaining how she didn’t want to get her hopes up too quickly. Then, she watched as Harris had a round of “speed dating” with each of her potential running mates and eventually picked Walz.

“Then there was that glorious day where it is announced that Tim Walz is going to be the next vice president,” she said to loud applause. “We know the Walz family well, and one of the things that I love that America is seeing now is the interaction of Kamala and Tim on that stage.”

Klobuchar said Walz’s record on items like tax cuts, free lunch for school children, stronger family leave laws and more makes him the right pick for America.

Following Klobuchar’s speech, the breakfast concluded.

8:15 a.m.

Attorney General Keith Ellison took the stage to a strong round of applause. He recalls the shock he felt when he saw video of George Floyd’s murder. Ellison said he was in touch with Tim Walz throughout the prosecution of Derek Chauvin, and later heard from Kamala Harris, too. “We’ve got two people on this ticket who care about the law, care about justice.”

He spoke on Walz’s “common sense” governance, such as efforts to install an earned sick and safe time law to address the childcare crisis, as well as restoring voting rights to certain felons. “It’s just basic common sense,” Ellison said.

U.S. Sec. of Agriculture Tom Vilsack followed Ellison. He said the Democrats in the room understand the importance of elevating Harris and Walz to the Oval Office and promoting Flanagan to governor. “[Minnesota sends really good people to Washington,” Vilsack said, referring to Walter Mondale and Hubert Humphrey. While concluding, Vilsack called Republican vice presidential candidate “weird,” jumping on the left-wing trend.

8 a.m.

Infinite Campus founder and CEO Charlie Kratsch gave a short speech introducing Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan.

Flanagan said Minnesota knows a thing or two about growing vice presidents, and that Walz will make a great running mate and partner to Kamala Harris. She spoke on the DFL’s work to increase wages, create childcare availability and more in a testament to Walz’s dedication to improving America.

She added that she expects Democrats will elected Harris and Walz, that Minnesota will be kept blue. “When we fight, we win,” she said. After leaving the stage, Flanagan took photos with multiple attendees and mingled throughout the audience.

7:30 a.m.

Good morning from the Fairmont Chicago, where Minnesota Democrats are hosting their first delegate breakfast gathering of the week. With breakfasts every day, Monday’s speakers include Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, Attorney General Keith Ellison and more.

Chair of the Minnesota Democratic-Farmer-Labor Party Ken Martin takes the stage to loud cheers from the roughly 100 Democrats who have entered the ballroom.

Former New York State representative Rev. Michael Blake speaks next. He’s hyping up Gov. Tim Walz’s leadership, saying he’s excited to see Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan become Minnesota’s governor during a Harris-Walz presidency.

Blake is followed by Rep. Emanuel Cleaver (D-Missouri), who has served in Washington for nearly 20 years. Cleaver was on a plane when President Joe Biden announced he’d be discontinuing his campaign. He said this election will have benefits or consequences for generations to come, depending on the outcome.

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This article is updated throughout the duration of the Democratic National Convention, so long as updates are available.
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DFL delegates condemn antisemitism and call for ceasefire in Gaza war

Mark Wasson — Mon, 03 Jun 2024 00:13:21 GMT

DULUTH — DFL delegates engaged in some lively debate during their state convention in Duluth over the weekend and came out with a cemented party platform and an endorsed candidate for a Minnesota Senate seat.

"The most important thing about the convention is picking a candidate to lead our party's ticket in November, and we united overwhelmingly behind Amy Klobuchar," DFL Party spokesperson Darwin Forsyth said. "Meanwhile, Minnesota Republicans are mired in divisive costly primaries for Senate, Congress, and competitive legislative seats — with a convicted felon leading their party."

Delegates this weekend voted on 113 different resolutions to add to the party platform, endorsed Klobuchar for reelection to the Senate, nominated national delegates and heard speeches from prominent Minnesota DFLers including Gov. Tim Walz.

While the convention overall was seemingly smooth, some points of contention did emerge surrounding Klobuchar's endorsement, mining in the Iron Range, and the war in Gaza.

Klobuchar, three times elected since 2006, faced no official Democrat challengers and an attempt to nominate another candidate failed to get the amount of support needed.

That nomination was led by a progressive anti-war wing of the DFL that wanted to confront Klobuchar regarding the war in Gaza.

The Gaza issue led to some passionate speeches over the weekend. Views on what the party policy should be towards the war, Israel and the Palestinian people were diverse.

"We want to know why we have any money for bombs when there's Minnesotans going hungry, sleeping out on the streets and lacking adequate health care," Jerod Martinson, a DFL delegate, told Forum News Service.

Several dozen protesters joined party delegates outside the Duluth Convention Center on Saturday.

They called for a ceasefire and for U.S. divestment from Israel due to their belief that the country has failed to adhere to international norms in warfare.

One of the resolutions, which would make it party policy to define as anti-Semitic denials of Israel’s right to exist as a country, was met with resistance from seven Jewish delegates.

The delegates, in a statement, said the resolution ignores Jewish disagreement with Zionism, which calls to sustain a "Jewish state" within the historical lands of Palestine.

"On a personal note, as Jewish dissenters of Zionism we would find it quite distressing to have our own political party declare us to be antisemitic," the delegates wrote.

To that, there was pushback from delegates, some of whom also identified as Jewish, who concurred with the resolution. One delegate commented that there was no genocide or ethnic cleansing in Gaza right now and that it is simply a war.

That resolution, which condemns antisemitism, was amended to take the contested language out and delegates approved the resolution on Sunday.

For context, the DFL current platform recognizes "Israel’s right to exist within secure borders, Palestinian rights to self-determination, and continued peace efforts in the Middle East."

The divide between party members over the war in Gaza could be costly for Biden and Democrats as progressive members take on the party establishment.

A national movement to vote uncommitted during Democratic state primaries for president had a decently strong showing in Minnesota with about 19% of voters choosing "uncommitted." The latest polls show Trump and Biden in a mathematical dead heat.

Other resolutions related to Israel and Palestine and how delegates voted:

Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid: Supports immediate release of hostages, and prisoners held without trial, immediate humanitarian aid, and an immediate ceasefire through continued peace efforts in Gaza. APPROVED Civilian Safety: The halt of human atrocities and a prioritization of civilian safety for the Palestinian and Israeli people. NOT APPROVED Palestinian Rights: Support the human rights of Palestinians and support recognition of the Palestinian state. NOT APPROVED Release Unjustly Held Political Prisoners: Supports Israel immediately releasing any unjustly held political prisoners. NOT APPROVED Fund UNRWA: Supports funding of UNRWA (The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East is a UN agency that supports the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees.) NOT APPROVED

2024 DFL State Convention Platform Results by Mark Wasson on Scribd

DFL 2024 State Convention Platform resolutions

Also at issue this weekend were concerns about copper-nickel mining in the Iron Range, an issue that pitted the DFL's union members against its environmental wing.

A resolution to support a legislative hearing on the "Prove It First" legislation was amended to simply support a legislative hearing on copper-nickel mining in general. The "Prove It First" legislation would require proof a copper-nickel mine has operated in the U.S. for 10 years without causing pollution and had closed for 10 years without causing pollution. Delegates approved the amended resolution on Sunday.

While proponents of the "Prove It First" legislation did not support the amendment, they view it as a step forward, said delegate Chris Knopf.

Knopf is also the executive director for Friends of the Boundary Waters, an environmental group that seeks stronger protections for Minnesota's ecosystem.

Republicans took a swing at DFLers over the mining debate.

"It is crystal clear — the DFL is the anti-mining party and will do anything they can to stifle us," Rep. Peter Stauber wrote on social media. Stuaber represents northeastern Minnesota in the U.S. House of Representatives.

To my Iron Range friends: the DFL is making fun of you and mocking our way of life. It is crystal clear - the DFL is the anti-mining party and will do anything they can to stifle us. https://t.co/WfGI1HTnJg
— Pete Stauber (@PeteStauber) June 1, 2024

Knopf said claims that the DFL is against mining in general is a distortion of the truth.

"We're not against taconite mining," he told Forum News Service, adding that copper-nickel mining presents a much different level of risk in regards to clean water in the state.

A look into Democrat campaigning

The weekend also gave a window into what the DFL campaign strategy will be this election season.

DFL leaders and politicians boasted about the party’s successes in Minnesota while condemning the MAGA movement during their state convention.

"We're heading into the general election with a record of delivering for working families on issues like free school meals and paid family leave," DFL spokesperson Forsyth said. "Republicans will have to defend an extreme and unpopular agenda, from banning abortion to tax cuts to the rich."

Trump’s recent conviction has given Democrats a talking point that will likely be repeated during this election season. The former president was found guilty of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments to a woman before the 2016 election.

DFL-endorsed candidates who spoke at the convention also painted their Republican opponents as extremists.

Jen Schultz, the DFL-endorsed candidate for Congressional District 8 covering northeastern Minnesota, said her opponent, Stauber, is part of a chaos caucus in Congress.

“Stauber is a real threat to our democracy,” she claimed. She believes Stauber was resistant to investigate the Jan. 6 riots led by Trump supporters upset over unsubstantiated claims of election fraud. The events of the day led to five deaths in 36 hours and hundreds of arrests.

2024 DFL Convention in Duluth

DFL delegates and party leaders have gathered in Duluth the weekend of May 31 - June 2, 2024 for their state convention.

Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison at the 2024 DFL Convention in Duluth holds a moment of silence for a Minnesota police officer that was recently killed in the state.

DFL Chair Ken Martin, right, at the 2024 DFL Convention in Duluth on May 31, 2024

Sen. Amy Klobuchar gives her acceptance speech after being nominated by DFL delegates during their state convention in Duluth on May 31, 2024.

Sen. Tina Smith praises Senate collegue Amy Klobuchar during the DFL State Convention in Duluth on May 31, 2024

A woman uses a cell phone to capture an image of merchandise displayed at the Minnesota DFL Store during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

People gather for the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

A delegate speaks into a microphone during the DFL Convention at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Ann Friedrich, co-chairperson, stands at the podium during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

Former Minnesota State Representative Mary Murphy speaks during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

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Gaza, mining top issues during second day of DFL convention

Mark Wasson — Sun, 02 Jun 2024 01:17:01 GMT

DULUTH — DFL Party leaders and endorsed candidates largely voiced the same script at their state convention Saturday, promoting DFL legislative action in Minnesota, singing the praise of President Joe Biden and condemning former President Donald Trump.

However, a vocal minority of progressive delegates have taken issue with the DFL and Democrats in general over the party's support of Israel in the war in Gaza.

Martinson was seen outside the DFL convention holding a sign that read "Guilty of Gendemocide," — the word mixes genocide and Democrat because Martinson and other protesters believe Democrats are aiding in the deaths of Palestinians.

"The war in Gaza is just the latest and one of the worst examples of our over-militarism and it's just destroying us," he said, adding that he is an Army veteran who served in Iraq during the war's early years.

Several dozen protesters joined party delegates outside of the Duluth Convention Center on Saturday.

They called for a ceasefire and the U.S. divestment from Israel due to the country's failure to adhere to international norms in warfare.

One of the resolutions, which would make it party policy to call the denial of Israel’s right to exist as a country anti-Semitic, was met with resistance from seven Jewish delegates.

The delegates, in a statement, said the resolution ignores Jewish disagreement with Zionism, which calls to sustain a "Jewish state" within the historical lands of Palestine.

"On a personal note, as Jewish dissenters of Zionism we would find it quite distressing to have our own political party declare us to be antisemitic," the delegates wrote.

Other resolutions related to Israel and Palestine:

Ceasefire and Humanitarian Aid: Supports the immediate release of hostages, immediate humanitarian aid and an immediate ceasefire through continued peace efforts in Gaza. It also includes supporting a two-state solution that affirms the rights of both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples to have their own states within safe and secure borders. Civilian Safety: The halt of human atrocities and a prioritization of civilian safety for the Palestinian and Israeli people. Palestinian Rights: Support the human rights of Palestinians. Release Unjustly Held Political Prisoners: Supports Israel immediately releasing any unjustly held political prisoners. Fund UNRWA: Supports funding of UNRWA (The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East is a UN agency that supports the relief and human development of Palestinian refugees.)

This divide could be costly for Biden and Democrats as progressive members take on the party establishment.

“We need to be more assertive on our viewpoints Gaza and what is happening there,” DFL delegate Wayne Pulford told Forum News Service, citing the destruction of Palestinian hospitals and schools and the number of lives lost.

“I think we just need to keep up pressure on the Democratic Party to push back on what's happening,” Pulford said. “(Israel) can fight a just war. They're just not doing it right now.”

Delegates were slated to debate 113 resolutions and their amendments on Saturday but as of 8 p.m., delegates had yet to start debate on about two-thirds of them.

Either delegates will continue their resolution debates into Saturday night or will pick up the issues on Sunday, the last day of the convention.

Campaign continues

Also on Saturday, DFL leaders and politicians continued to boast about the party’s successes in Minnesota while condemning the MAGA movement.

Minnesota Speaker of the House Melissa Hortman touted the party’s legislative actions. The DFL currently has trifecta in state government, controlling the governor’s office and both legislative chambers. The party has passed several large bills, including paid family leave and a program to provide free food to school children.

“We did not come to play,” Hortman said Saturday.

Among those successes include protections for abortion, gun control, environmental protections, worker rights, education funds and health care reform.

Trump’s recent conviction has also given Democrats a talking point that will likely be repeated during this election season. The former president was recently convicted of 34 felony counts of falsifying business records related to hush money payments to a woman before the 2016 election.

Most of the speakers Saturday morning, which included Gov. Tim Walz, either called Trump a felon or brought up his legal woes. Walz, serving as a hypeman for the party, told delegates that he was proud to be part of a party with diverse beliefs.

Jen Schultz, the DFL endorsed candidate for Congressional District 8 covering northeast Minnesota, also targeted her opponent, Republican Rep. Pete Stauber on Saturday.

Schultz, who served in the Minnesota House of Representatives from 2015 to 2022, drew parallels between her and Stauber.

“Stauber is part of the extremists, chaos caucus,“ she said.

“Stauber is a real threat to our democracy,” she claimed. She believes Stauber was resistant to investigate the Jan. 6 riots, an act led by Trump supporters upset over unsubstantiated claims of election fraud. The events of the day led to five deaths in 36 hours and hundreds of arrests.

What to do about mining on Iron Range?

As expected, the issue of copper-sulfide mining drew both advocates for the practice and those who oppose it, which often pitted DFL union members and the party’s environmental wing at odds.

The debate revolved around the “Prove it First” legislation, which has failed to be heard in the state’s Legislature for about a decade. The bill would require mining companies to prove their mining plans are safe and in line with state and federal environmental protections.

“It pains me to see the issue of mining in Minnesota continue to divide the party,” delegate Jeremy Johnson said to convention goers, adding mining brings thousands of jobs to Minnesota.

Several of those opposed to the legislation told their fellow delegates that mining has already proven to be safe and the law would outsource jobs to foreign countries that rely on child labor.

The issue could split off votes from the DFL, especially with the St. Louis County GOP attempting to make inroads with union members in the Iron Range.

Historically, union members have tended to vote for Democrats, though northeast Minnesota voting trends show a change of wind in decades-old party loyalties.

While people raised their voices in moments of passion, the comments made by both advocates for the legislation and those opposed were largely cordial.

"Now is a time for the DFL to take common sense action to protect our clean water from foreign mining conglomerates that threaten to poison our clean water with copper-nickel sulfide mines," delegate Chris Knopf said.

Knopf is also the executive director for Friends of the Boundary Waters, an environmental group that seeks stronger protections for Minnesota's eco-system.

Delegate Jean Baldwin, a union journeyman, had some of the harshest words Saturday for "Prove It First" supporters.

"If you vote for ‘Prove It First,’ you're selfish," she said. "You're selfish because your vote means all mining that Minnesota needs and will do with the highest level of safe mining practices with skilled labor will be done in another country using child labor with little to no safe mining practices."

On Saturday, the first day of the convention, delegates endorsed Sen. Amy Klobuchar in this year's election. She will either face Joe Fraser, a Navy veteran and businessman, or Royce White, a far-right podcaster and former professional basketball player, in November’s election.

DFL State Convention in Duluth May 31 - June 2.

A delegate speaks into a microphone during the DFL Convention at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Storm Novak, of Mankato, holds up a sign as people gather for a pro-Palestine protest during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

Dan Ryan, of Rogers, looks for a spot to enjoy a snack during a break at the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Ryan was a delegate with SD34.

A woman uses a cell phone to capture an image of merchandise displayed at the Minnesota DFL Store during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

Duluth City Councilor Arik Forsman smiles while having a conversation during a break at the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center.

Mike Nordby, of Odin, plays a video game during a break at the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. Nordby is the elected chairperson for Watonwan County.

People march toward the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for a pro-Palestine protest during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024.

People gather outside of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for a pro-Palestine protest during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024.

Scot Bol, of Duluth, applauds while listening to a speaker during a pro-Palestine protest Saturday, June 1, 2024 outside of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center. The Minnesota DFL Convention was beind held inside of the DECC.

People gather outside of the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center for a pro-Palestine Protest during the DFL Convention Saturday, June 1, 2024.

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Trump protesters also take aim at Biden over Israel-Palestine

Mark Wasson — Sat, 18 May 2024 02:14:58 GMT

ST. PAUL — A protest demonstration outside a fundraising dinner event featuring an appearance by former President Donald Trump featured an interesting twist.

As a half-dozen orators spoke to about 50 people Friday evening during the event near Saint Paul RiverCentre, it became clear that although the protest was decidedly anti-Trump, progressives within the group also place blame at the feet of President Joe Biden for what they call racist and unjust policies.

Nothing could make that more clear than both the protesters and Trump supporters chanting "F--- Joe Biden" back and forth.

Promoted as a pro-immigrant rally hosted by the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee, CAIR-MN and the Minnesota Abortion Action Committee, the event featured several pro-Palestinian signs and flags among the group.

An anti-war movement regarding the current Israeli-Palestinian conflict has been played out at college campuses around the country, with protesters — often young progressives — battling it out against Israeli war supporters, police and their school administrations.

While some of those protests have had violent and bloody outcomes, the demonstration Friday in front of Saint Paul RiverCentre was peaceful, with only a handful of heated arguments.

Only about a half-dozen Trump supporters were present during most of the rally. That small handful of Trump supporters spouted several conspiracy theories, some of which were anti-Semitic, and intentionally crossed a road to confront the anti-Trump rallygoers.

However, the two sides eventually did share a common thread: their dislike of Joe Biden.

Olivia Crull, an organizer with the Minnesota Abortion Action Committee, said that people were there Friday to oppose Trump's visit to the Twin Cities.

Trump was slated to speak at the GOP-held Lincoln-Reagan Dinner Friday night.

"He's not welcome here," Crull said. "He and his campaign don't reflect the values of the people who live here."

All of the rally speakers spoke out against Trump's immigration policies and campaign rhetoric, which often has targeted the Muslims.

Trump famously instituted what critics called a Muslim ban during his term in office, where he used a series of executive orders to ban travel from seven predominantly Muslim countries and lowered the number of refugees admitted to the U.S.

And while the protesters opposed Trump's actions regarding Muslims, Crull said organizers are not afraid to hold all politicians accountable.

"The people involved in organizing this protest are also critical of the Democratic Party and the ongoing genocide in Gaza under Joe Biden," Crull said.

While Biden and Trump have all but secured their party nominations, it's left progressives with little to vote for that aligns with their morals and ethics.

This could be why Angela Patti appeared at Friday's protest with a sign promoting the presidential run of Cornel West, an outspoken American philosopher in left-wing American politics.

Patti said West will fight for oppressed people, change the way the United Nations operates and put a stop to America's conflicts around the world.

"He will make his voice heard that things have to change," Patti said. "With the silent revolution all over the world, I believe it can be done with the right person in office."

However, Brad Sigal, a member of the Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee, said his group does not endorse candidates, instead focusing on influencing a politician's decisions to more closely align with the organization's mission.

"Throughout history, it's everyday people coming together," Sigal said, adding that the influence of Martin Luther King Jr and Malcolm X led to the Civil Rights Act. "We're continuing that tradition of getting out in the streets, expressing our outrage against Trump and everything he stands for and trying to push all people running for office and all people in office to respect human rights."

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‘Is free speech worth the cost?’ New York Mills Cultural Center wants to know.

Frank Lee — Wed, 08 May 2024 11:00:00 GMT

NEW YORK MILLS — Put your thinking caps on. The Great American Think-Off is about to get real.

Organizers of the June 8 live debate hosted by the New York Mills Regional Cultural Center announced on April 30 the four finalists in the nonprofit’s annual philosophical contest. The Cultural Center asked “Is free speech worth the cost?” and invited people to submit essays.

“We usually get a couple of hundred essays each year,” said Betsy Roder, executive director of the Cultural Center. “The most we've ever had was 800 essays and that was when we asked ‘Is honesty always the best policy?’ and that was in 1998.”

The Great American Think-Off asks everyday Americans to weigh in on various chosen topics with essays of 750 words or less and has invited the top two on each side to battle it out as an exercise in civil discourse or in the name of democracy.

“This year, 25% of the essays were International, which is pretty remarkable — that's higher than normal — 25% were from Minnesota and 50% were from all the other states in the United States,” said Roder, who announced the finalists on May 1.

This year, the Great American Think-Off committee landed on the topic of freedom of speech due to its relevance to current events such as gag orders, book bannings and “cancel culture” as well as to the more timeless concept of personal liberties put forth by America’s founders.

“I'm a little surprised that three of the finalists are from Minnesota, given the fact that they were only 25% of the total essays submitted,” Roder said of the debate about free speech.

As student protests on college campuses become more heated over Israel’s invasion of Gaza following the Hamas attack on its citizens and pro-Palestine supporters, university presidents are facing hostile crowds on both sides of the issue of free speech.

“With all Think-Off questions, we encourage people to go a little deeper below their surface and to think about the price of free speech a little more broadly,” Roder said. “And so the people who were successful did that in their essays.”

The four finalists are Minnesotans Crystal Kelley of Eden Prairie, David Lapakko of Richfield and Bill Sutherland of Eden Prairie, and Michelle Mellon of Deming, New Mexico. They won $500 each and will debate on stage on June 8 before a voting audience to determine a winner.

“We have a volunteer committee that chooses the finalists each year,” Roder said. “And one of the things that they're always looking for is for people to use personal experience and observation, so that's more important than, you know, philosophical abstraction.”

During the debate, the finalists will defend their essays, arguing their side of the 2024 Think-Off question “Is freedom of speech worth the cost?” Kelley and Mellon will assert that it is worth the cost while Lapakko and Sutherland will argue that it is not.

“It's very organized,” Roder said of the live debate. “A big piece of the thing is about civil discourse, so that is something we stress with the finalists that this is about being civil, it's about listening to each other — not just talking.”

A philosophers and artists reception with the finalists will be held from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. on June 7 at the Cultural Center. The reception is free to attend and open to all. Refreshments and a cash bar will be available.

Roder said of the pay-to-attend Think-Off debates, “It is really interesting to watch and listen to because it is structured. People don't go down these long rambling paths because we don't allow that.”

The 2024 finalists bring a variety of learned and lived experiences to the stage of the New York Mills Public �� auditorium to aid in the defense of their positions during the June 8 live debate.

“I was probably most surprised with this year was the number of international entries, so that's been going up each year, but that's really interesting,” Roder said of the submitted essays due April 1. “And it seems like a lot of those tend to be students, which is also interesting.”

The audience at the live debate, which includes three rounds, will be invited to vote for who they think made the best or most persuasive argument. The debate winner will earn the title of “America’s Greatest Thinker” for 2024.

“Two of the finalists have been finalists before,” Roder said of this year’s finalists. “And one of them has been an honorable mention before. And then the fourth person, this is her first time submitting an essay, so that's interesting, too.”

Designed to bring philosophy down from the ivory towers of academia and make it accessible for all, the Great American Think-Off has received national acclaim, including coverage by C-SPAN, the New York Times and the “Today” show.

“The winner is going to get a gold medal,” Roder said. “The second-place finisher gets a silver medal and then the third- and fourth-place each get bronze medals. … We do plan to livestream the event on our YouTube page as well … but you cannot vote if you're watching it online.”

Tickets to attend the live debate are $12 in advance or $15 at the door; students are just $5. They can be purchased online at http://tiny.cc/ThinkOff. A reception honoring the finalists will be at the Cultural Center immediately following the debate and is open to all.

For more details about the Great American Think-Off's past and a list of the past questions and winners, visit www.kulcher.org/think-off/history. For more information, call the Cultural Center at 218-385-3339 or visit www.kulcher.org.

The 2024 GATO finalists

David Lapakko was a Think-Off finalist in 2013, 2015 and 2019, and winner of the debate in 2015, arguing that technology frees us (as opposed to traps us). Bill Sutherland was a finalist in 2021. Crystal Kelley was an Honorable Mention essayist in 2018. Michelle Mellon is a first-timer.

Crystal Kelley of Eden Prairie is a full-time caregiver for her disabled adult son. Crystal has been a writer and editor for decades, first as a full-time corporate gig then as a freelancer. Her published essays range from copyright law to head lice. David Lapakko of Richfield is finishing his 38th year as a communications professor at Augsburg University with courses in persuasion, argumentation, research methods, communication theory, intercultural communication and organizational communication. Michelle Mellon of Deming, New Mexico, has been a professional storyteller for more than 30 years, including more than 25 years in marketing as a copywriter, content writer and ghostwriter. She is a brand communications and marketing consultant. Bill Sutherland of Eden Prarie has been in the consulting engineering business for 40 years or so and founded MinnTech Engineering Consulting Engineers in 1984. He holds a degree in electrical engineering and earned his professional engineer license in 1978.

FRANK LEE is the features writer for the Wadena Pioneer Journal. He may be reached at 218-631-6470 or at flee@wadenapj.com.

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LaDuke: Riding away the tears

Winona LaDuke — Wed, 10 Jan 2024 17:00:00 GMT

The ride is hard. Oomaka Tokatakiya, the Future Generations Ride, commemorates the Lakota ancestors and families who were brutally murdered in the Wounded Knee Massacre on Dec. 29, 1890. The ancestors had ridden from Standing Rock to Pine Ridge to save their people; instead, they were shot by the Cavalry.

This year, the ride had 100 riders at the end, most of them under 20. The ride is grueling and there is suffering. That’s part of the grieving process, and the healing process. That’s the next generation.

On Dec. 29, the Lakota held a ceremony at the Wounded Knee gravesite and read the names of those who were killed, and identified — aloud — women, children and entire families wiped out by the howitzers. There were many who were not named but remembered in the wind and in the moment.

It was somber. And, for the second year, clothing, moccasins, pipes that belonged to the murdered were there at Wounded Knee. They had been returned from a museum in the east, a small town in western Massachusetts, where a ghoulish collection had rested for over a century. The Barre Museum had told its patrons that the Lakota buried their clothes before they went to Wounded Knee.

We prayed, listening to songs on the cold December morning, as we looked at dresses, ghost dance shirts and baby moccasins, all stripped from the bodies. Now, all sat in open boxes on the gravesite where their people had been buried. We mourned together.

It was 1890 and the great leader Sitting Bull was incarcerated at Fort Yates with his people. The Black Hills were illegally taken with the Black Hills Act of 1877, the buffalo had been decimated. Incarcerated at prisoner-of-war camps, the rations had been cut in half. The people were starving.

On Dec. 15, the 8th Cavalry ordered the assassination of Sitting Bull by the Indian police. With his death, Sitting Bull's ally, Minneconjou Lakota leader Spotted Elk (dubbed "Big Foot" by the cavalry for the size of his shoes), fled south to the Pine Ridge Agency with about 350 mostly women and children.

They traveled under the cover of night, in the depths of winter. They rode over 200 miles through canyons, Badlands, and brutal conditions. Chased by the cavalry, they arrived at Wounded Knee, where they sought safety and a chance to live. That chance was not given.

Chief Spotted Elk surrendered just north of the village of Wounded Knee. His people camped, surrounded by the 7th Cavalry. The next morning, Spotted Elk was among the first to fall. Thirty minutes later, as many as 300 Lakota lay dead — adults, children, and even infants.

Col. Forsyth commended his soldiers for their “gallant conduct … in an engagement with a band of Indians in desperate condition and crazed by religion.” The Army awarded 23 Medals of Honor to soldiers who participated in the massacre. U.S. Cpl. Paul Weinert, for instance, was cited for “firing his howitzer at several Indians in the ravine.”

Can’t really whitewash this story, although many have tried. This is not critical race theory, this is history. And, despite decades of erasure, the story is here; the people remember, and work to heal.

How do you heal? That’s a question aptly asked 133 years later. First, we acknowledge what happened, we grieve and begin to heal spiritually.

In the early 1980s, Alex White Plume's uncle told him that because the Army had not allowed survivors and family members to perform grieving ceremonies at Wounded Knee, the spirits of the victims were unable to leave the "Land of the Breathing." In 1986, White Plume, his brother Percy and 17 other Lakota, calling themselves the Si Tanka Wokiksuye Okolakiciye — "Spotted Elk Remembrance Group" — embarked on the first annual Big Foot Memorial Ride from Standing Rock to Pine Ridge.

“As men, we cried," White Plume said. "We used to try to be like the white man — don't show any pain and just be tough. But after you go through that ride, it's OK to cry. It heals your wounds." The White Plume family has continued this ride for almost 40 years; each year, new young riders come, stories and prayers are recited, men and women suffer in honor of their ancestors. And we all come to heal.

At the gravesite, I stand with Andrea Eastman, a Sisseton Dakota woman. She’s looking over the medical notes of her ancestor, Dr. Charles Eastman, who attended to survivors at what was called the Indian camp.

Eastman was among the first Native people to be certified as a European-style doctor. Eastman saved all those he could; only seven died in his care at the “Indian camp.” He was sickened by the carnage and was forced out of his position because his medical notes countered Col. Forsyth’s narrative.

As I stood looking over the gravesite and the baby moccasins, I cried — we all did. There’s something that began, a new chapter in the healing from the brutality of history.

The time for massacres is long over. That’s true in North America, South America and Palestine. The time for healing is here. As I witness the horse riders, I can see a new generation coming. It is time to wipe the tears.

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Professor, former regent allege faculty post on U of M website is ‘antisemitic’

Cathy Wurzer, Gracie Stockton and Peter Cox / MPR News — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 22:19:35 GMT

MINNEAPOLIS — A University of Minnesota law professor and a former regent have asked the U.S. Department of Education to investigate their concerns about alleged antisemitism after faculty posted an opinion statement on an official university website.

“We stand in solidarity with the Palestinian people, and with Palestinian scholars and organizers,” reads the statement from the College of Liberal Arts’ Gender, Women and Sexuality Studies Department tenured faculty. “At a time when so many institutions are renewing a commitment to Israel’s right to ‘self defense,’ we assert that Israel’s response is not self-defense but the continuation of a genocidal war against Gaza and against Palestinian freedom, self-determination, and life…

“In the past decades, all forms of Palestinian resistance and solidarity with Palestine have been further criminalized or violently repressed.”

Professor and former Bush Administration White House ethics attorney Richard Painter and former regent Michael Hsu claim the CLA violated Title VI of the Civil Rights Act, which “prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, and national origin in programs and activities receiving federal financial assistance.”

“This is not about being pro-Palestinian,” Painter told MPR News. “This is about official statements of departments on websites paid for by the Minnesota taxpayers that justify the actions of Hamas.”

In their letter to the Department of Education, Painter and Hsu claim “CLA has allowed departments to post antisemitic faculty statements condemning Israel, and justifying the terrorist attacks by Hamas.”

As of Tuesday, there’s no word on whether the Department of Education has opened an investigation into the allegations of antisemitism. However, the department does say there’s been an increase in reports of antisemitism, Islamophobic and anti-Muslim incidents since the war between Israel and Hamas began on Oct. 7.

Three college presidents have faced calls to resign after testifying about antisemitism at a congressional hearing.

University of Minnesota Interim President Jeff Ettinger has promised listening sessions with staff, students and alumni. Painter says the immediate solution is instead to take down the websites and for university employees to keep their personal views on personal feeds.

University spokesperson Jake Ricker said in an email the U is “aware of the letter shared with the Department of Education. The letter’s broad characterizations of the University are inaccurate and are fundamentally contrary to our mission and values. We look forward to hearing from the Office of Civil Rights, and to responding appropriately.”

Ricker added that “acts of harassment, intimidation or bias are entirely unacceptable and will not be tolerated. We have and will respond promptly and fully to any reports of this behavior on campus. In addition, the University is providing resources to anyone in our community who needs support right now.”

In an email to MPR News, Aren Aizura, associate professor and chair of the Department of Gender Women and Sexuality Studies, declined to comment.

To the university’s criticism of inaccurate characterizations, Painter encouraged individuals to read the statement in question themselves and make up their own minds.

Painter believes Ettinger has made headway in other problems at the U of M, like campus safety.

“I have a lot of confidence in the president that he's listening,” he said. “I think the university will do the right thing.”

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