Celebrates the growing relationship between the people of Winona and the people of the Dakota Nations.
In 2004, the Winona Dakota Unity Alliance created a vision with a dream of bringing the Dakota people back to their homeland and educating the people about the land in Winona. The mission statement of the Winona Dakota Unity Alliance is to “continue the conciliation process by an alliance between Winona, Minnesota, and the Dakota Nation through educational, cultural, and service projects mutually designed to bring both together in greater wholeness.”
The Winona Dakota Gathering, Homecoming & Powwow is an annual event for families of indigenous and local populations and around the region. It is held in Unity Park at the East end of Lake Winona.
September 29-October 1, 2023
Unity Park
Winona, MN
Spiritual Leader: Arnold Williams
MC: Butch Felix
Veteran Honor Guard: Gordon Weston Lodge
FRIDAY September 29
● Evening Grounds Blessing
SATURDAY September 30
● 7 am Sunrise Opening Ceremony
● 9 am Flag Raising
● 10 am Talk Circle
● 1 pm Grand Entry – Traditional Dancing
● 5 pm Evening Unity Feast
SUNDAY October 1
● 7 am Sunrise Ceremony
● 9 am Flag Raising
● 10 am-12 pm Remembering Our Loved Ones,
Led by Suzanne Nash, Indigenous Peoples Task Force
A time to honor and remember loved ones lost to opioids or alcohol