WELLSVILLE, Utah (AP) - Wellsville city officials say in a letter to residents that they will make changes to an annual reenactment tradition that could be considered offensive to Native Americans.
The Salt Lake Tribune reports (https://bit.ly/2xveoIU ) Wellsville’s “Sham Battle” features participants covered in red paint to play Native Americans attacking Mormon settlers. In its Sunday letter, the city says it will make “necessary changes” to the almost 90-year-old reenactment tradition after meeting with members of the Northwestern Band of the Shoshone Nation.
The city has apologized to anyone that may have been offended by the reenactment and says it meant no disrespect.
Although the city’s letter is not clear on whether participants will continue dressing up as American Indians or list specific changes, tribal Chairman Darren Parry considers it a “wonderful first start.”
___
Information from: The Salt Lake Tribune, https://www.sltrib.com
Please read our comment policy before commenting.