We’re no different. It’s just that we probably had to suffer a whole lot more.

In relation to commemorating the events of 1862, Ms. Swenson discusses the importance of education.

Things to think about: 

What is the best way to educate people about Minnesota's history?

Audio Chapters

DL: I wondered about this: Do you think it’s a good idea to acknowledge these events today, 150 years later, or are they better left alone?

LS: No, I think it’s best to – the more education that people get, the more understanding they will have of the Sioux people; well, indigenous people in general. The more education they have, the better understanding that we’re just people too, you know, we’re no different. It’s just that we probably had to suffer a whole lot more. But history’s got to know both sides; the good and the bad. And the more truthful you can be about things, the better understanding we will leave in the minds of our children and history.

Oral History- Interview | Narrator LaVonne Swenson Interviewer Deborah Locke made in Morton, Lower Sioux Community, MN | Tuesday, February 15, 2011

Citation: Minnesota Historical Society. U.S. - Dakota War of 1862. We’re no different. It’s just that we probably had to suffer a whole lot more. October 4, 2024. http://www.usdakotawar.org/node/1130

Viewpoints: All viewpoints expressed on this website are those of the contributors, and are not representative of the Minnesota Historical Society.