Colorado lawmakers unanimously approved a resolution on Monday regarding the design and location of a memorial to honor the victims of the Sand Creek massacre, a project that has been in the works for decades. However, representatives of the Southern Cheyenne and Arapaho tribes of Oklahoma expressed disappointment at not being included in the discussions. The memorial sculpture, depicting three Native American figures, will be placed on the west side of the state Capitol. The tribes hold an annual Sand Creek Massacre Spiritual Healing Run and plan to lay a ceremonial lodge pole on the tepee as part of the memorial.
The resolution aims to respect and memorialize the Cheyenne and Arapaho people, promote cross-cultural understanding, and educate the public about the massacre. The Sand Creek Massacre, which occurred in 1864, led to the deaths of over 230 Cheyenne and Arapaho individuals. The memorial is intended to recognize the truth about what happened and foster healing.
While the approval of the resolution is seen as a significant step, there are concerns over the lack of consultation with all affected tribes and the design process. The goal is to have the statue ready by 2026, marking significant anniversaries for Colorado and the United States. Efforts to create the memorial have been ongoing, led by descendants of the victims and survivors of the massacre. The unanimous decision indicates a rare show of unity among legislators in supporting the memorial project.
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