Barred Window of Warehouse at the Lower Sioux Reservation Near Morton, Minnesota

I just read about a new Minnesota movie called "Older Than America" which is the first film produced by Tribal Alliance Productions, and was shot around the Fond du Lac reservation in Northern Minnesota.

I hesitated for a moment, considering if I should really write about this disturbing part of our state's history, because the movie reminds us about the era when Native American children were forcibly removed from their homes and placed in boarding schools to be assimilated into a Euro-American society.  Just imagine.

But being uncomfortable is no excuse for not acknowleging the truth.  I remember when a beautiful Native American woman from the Lower Sioux Community, named Vernell Wabasha, first told me about her own experiences.  I wondered how she could be so good-natured after such a devastating experience.  I suppose it's because she has character and is, well, a bit of a character.   

At any rate, I hope to see the film soon and learn more about this hidden part of my state's history.  Cante chante sica yaun sai ye - don't have a sad heart.  More information about Minnesota History.