Carrying a message of healing

Jasleen Archambeau, Isaiah Keeble and Ezmiah Middletent joined their grandfather Wilfred Keeble this winter on the Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride

Three St. Joseph’s Indian School siblings have experienced a horseback ride that is unlike any other.

Jasleen Archambeau, Isaiah Keeble and Ezmiah Middletent joined their grandfather Wilfred Keeble this winter on the Dakota 38+2 Memorial Ride that took place from December 8 to 26, 2019. This ride is a 16-day spiritual journey that honors the 38 Dakota warriors who were publically executed on December 26, 1862, in Mankato, Minn., in the largest mass execution in United States history.

The “+2” honors two additional warriors who were kidnapped from Canada three years later, brought back to the United States and then executed. The ride starts in Lower Brule, S.D., and ends at the site of the hanging in Mankato.

Planning for the first ride started in 2005, and since 2007 riders from across the Northern Plains have gathered to honor the lives of the warriors. Jasleen, the youngest of the siblings, is a second grade student at St. Joseph’s Indian School. She feels like this is a special time. “I like going on the ride because I can pray for my family and all the people who have passed away,” said Jasleen.

Although this 300-mile ride can get very cold and difficult, Keeble feels it shows his grandchildren the importance of reconciliation, prayer and sacrifice. “The main reason for this ride is to bring awareness and to carry a message of reconciliation and healing.” Keeble has been part of the ride since the planning stages. He has participated in every annual ride and plans to as long as he is able.

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