As part of an effort to create dialogue, understanding, and healing between Native and non-Native peoples, Rev. Jim Bear Jacobs guides Sacred Sites Tours of the Twin Cities area. These tours aim to create greater awareness and understanding of the Dakota people, the original people of this area, who too often are invisible in their homeland. The tour includes information on Dakota history, culture, and sacred sites, as well as the oppression and genocide they faced, and ultimately their exile. This tour is an opportunity to learn about Minnesota history from a Native perspective through story-telling and experiencing the sites in silence/meditation/reflection.

Together as a group, we will visit sites located around the confluence of the Mississippi and Minnesota rivers, what the Dakota refer to as Bdote, or "meeting place of rivers," including Fort Snelling State Park, Dakota Internment Camp following The Dakota-U.S. War, Pilot Knob Hill, a traditional burial ground. 

Tours are appropriate for adults and older youth. Tour groups meet at a location in Mendota near the sites and auto caravan to the sites. Carpooling usually occurs so those not preferring or unable to drive can ride with others. Address, directions, and map will be sent prior to the tour. Dress for the weather with sturdy footwear rather than sandals. If the weather is severe we will reschedule. We will do our best to accommodate the physical abilities of all attendees. Wheelchairs are welcome as the places we go are on or very near trails. People who may have difficulty standing for storytelling may want to bring lawn chairs. Those walking should expect to be on some uneven surfaces and dirt/gravel paths. We allow four hours for tours though actual times may vary; bring water and snacks as needed as we do not set aside time for lunch.