The four-day Sundance ceremony held at Pipestone National Monument by special permit began first with the Tree Day celebration that took place Wednesday, Aug. 5, by Three Maidens.
During Tree Day, Clyde Bellecourt, co-founder of the American Indian Movement, addressed the crowd from the center of the circle, initiating the rituals that precede the taking of the tree, such as the passing of the pipes and a water drinking ritual. Once the tree is taken, no more pictures are allowed as the tree is carried to the site of the Sundance and erected in the center of the circle, around which the dancers will fast, pray, dance and pierce for four days from Thursday, Aug. 6 to Sunday, Aug. 9.
The community is welcome to observe the Sundance ceremony. By vehicle, go to the Monument’s north access road.
