As we move closer to the 605 Unity JAM on Sunday, June 12 and the fun and interesting activities that will be a part of this day it is important to understand that this event is much more than just music, art and food. The fact that the Unity JAM is even taking place is important to note. Some people clearly understand the bigger picture of what this event is about and what can be the eventual outcome for our community as a whole. The Unity Team understands that times are changing, like it or not, and we need to be working together to help make our community better for everyone.

The Unity Team is working to help bring us all a little closer together, if even just for a day. This event is focusing upon the cultural groups in our area and how we can become partners rather than always pushing and pulling different directions. For to long, the Native and white community has spent to much time, money and energy just looking at each other, all to often just pointing fingers at each other and rarely finding or even trying to find ways to work together. It is important that we move away from this constant stalemate as it has not produced anything positive and it keeps us stuck in the same mud hole. The Unity Team reminds everyone that this project is just one step down the road and only one step, but an important one as it is at least a step that involves working together to make the day happen.

The Unity Team has heard many positive messages since we began planning for the 605 Unity JAM. Our community should feel proud that so many people understand the value and benefit of working together. People have been both verbally and financially supportive of the project and programing we are involved with. The Team understands that not everyone in our community wants things to change or event wants to find ways to work together. It is an unfortunate reality, but it is the reality we have to deal with as we move down this road in life. Both sides of the road have this issue at play, but fortunately we will not let that block us from bringing us closer to cooperation and understanding. If you want to see us learn to better understand each other, then take some time to meet someone new, talk and listen and look for the things we have in common. There is more than is different! Don’t just spend the time looking in the window, find the door and come on in and help make life better for us all.

Please note that 97.3 KKAC radio in Sioux Falls has shown a great deal of interest in this event and has written an interesting article about the event on their web site. KSFY TV has also shown interest and members of the Unity Team will be involved in an interview at the KSFY studio this week.