PIERRE, S.D.(KOTA)- A steady rain didn’t stop activists with NDN Collective and supporters of Indigenous education from gathering in Pierre Monday to protest newly proposed South Dakota Civics and History education standards the organization describes as promoting erasure of native culture.

Cante (tron-tay) Heart from Rapid City is the Native Outreach and Field Director for the South Dakota Democratic Party and helped emcee the gathering.

A stepped up Highway Patrol presence was around the State Capitol Building & around the Governor’s Residence as local law enforcement escorted roughly 100 people of all ages carrying signs and banners as they walked, rode horseback or followed in a vehicle caravan from Steamboat Park to Hilgers Gulch.

The South Dakota Department of Education says its Civics and History Initiative aims to help students understand our country, state and story; equips them with the knowledge and experience necessary to engage as informed citizens; and prepares them to participate in civil discourse on important issues.