StarTribune.com
coldwater090608

Home | Local + Metro

Conflict looms as Indians' protest permit expires today

Last update: September 5, 2008 - 9:08 AM

The permit that Dakota Indians protesting in Minneapolis were given -- but didn't ask for -- expires this afternoon.

The two dozen or so protesters erected two teepees and a couple of modern-day tents Tuesday in a bid to reclaim land for the Dakota. But the showdown on the abandoned federal land near Minnehaha Park was put off when federal officials issued a four-day permit.

That allowed the group to remain on the site for religious ceremonies. The site -- known as Coldwater Spring -- is sacred to the Dakota and housed the federal Bureau of Mines until 1996.

Organizers said they don't plan to leave after the permit expires at 3 this afternoon, and that's when a confrontation could come. They said they will maintain the occupation until Dakota rights to the land are fully restored and the federal government cleans up toxic waste on the 28 acres.

--PAUL WALSH

Recent Local + Metro stories

2 die in accident on I-35 in Washington County - September 5, 2008
2 die in accident on I-35 in Washington County - Two people were killed late this morning in a two-car crash that also blocked southbound I-35 at Hwy. 8, a State Patrol spokesman says. More

Comment on this story   |   Read all 6 comments   |  Hide reader comments

Subscribe
Shopping + Classifieds
Senior Living

Senior Living

See housing options providing independent, memory care and assisted living. Go now!.
Foreclosures

Home For Sale

Learn the best way to buy and sell a home. Start now!

Win tickets to see Electric Six with The Gay Blades and Millions of Brazilians at First Avenue.

Vita.mn presents Electric Six with The Gay Blades and Millions of Brazilians at First Avenue on Nov. 23.

See all contests