People slowly gathered last night for the beginning of the First Nation-Farmer Climate Unity March. Tents popped up on the hill near the shelter at Union Park.
Dinner was served around 7:00 pm, followed by introductions and discussions of the logistics of the March. That included interesting information presented by Soldier Boy (Manape LaMere), who has provided security for numerous marches and runs. He actually organized the runs of Native youth.
Many of the Native Americans who will be marching with us were at Iowa Citizens For Community Improvement creating the art, signs and banners, for the March (example below).
Another lesson I learned was to have everything setup for the night while it is still light out. Our meeting ended around 9:15 by which time it was completely dark. I spent a lot of time searching through the two duffel bags for things.
Even though a brought a pad to put under the sleep bag, I could definitely feel the ground beneath me. It took a while to fall asleep. I was enjoying being out in nature, bringing back memories of camping with the family each summer as we were growing up.
As expected, rain and thunder arrived. I was awoken at 3 am, and that continued for most of the rest of the night. Awakening, I began to re-pack everything for the first time. I hope this will go more smoothly with practice.
Next on the agenda is the press conference at the Public Utilities Board on the State Capitol grounds at 9:30.
First Nation-Farmer Unity 