The stage and information table was set, people started to come in - some for the benefit and some who had come for good food - they got that plus more!
BJ opened the program by welcoming the people - thanking all who had given their time and attention to the issues that were being shared - and those lending their amazing talents to the afternoon.
Dale Alan, creator of the Justice River Project was the featured guest. He told the people of the work that was being done on Pine Ridge to offer Lakota culture and language to the youth of the Oglala Lakota Nation. Bob and Fedilia Cross had a vision - to build a program, beginning with a summer camp and working toward being a full time school that will totally emerse them in language and the heritage that sustained these people for thousands of years before the Europeans came and changed them forever.
Dale's music is moving and educational - the story of the first Wounded Knee, to the Reign of Terror and the subsequent events on the Jumping Bull property that left one Lakota and two FBI agents dead. Leonard Peltier, the Lakota/Annishnabee warrior - a man defending his people - now unjustly accused, convicted, and incarcerated for 28 years.
The CD, Where Does The Justice Go? was created to tell these stories and to bring awarness to those that don't know. Sales from this work is going to begin and sustain the work of Bob and Fedilia. Dale, along with Dean played a few selections - and BJ recited Leonard's poem, "The Message". Which, on the CD was read by Fedilia.
Ginny Waite was next on stage. Ginny's music is created with so much spirit... and in the three years she has been offering her talents to the People, she has become stronger and her music is a blessing to all. Ginny also assists with equipment for the benefit. She has become a good and trusted friend. And we are very thankful for her.
Dean talked about the reasons we are working for the youth - they are our future - and it is for us to do all that we can to support wherever and whenever we can - all of us - because it is all about the next SEVEN GENERATIONS.
BJ closed the program by giving the importance of participating as a people, for the good of THE PEOLE. One of the most important ways to ensure that our next seven generations will be cared for is to vote - to pay attention to what is going on around us and choose people who will SERVE the people - not dictate and lead by ego and greed.
Be Well In The Struggle
AIM Asheville
