GREAT FALLS — The removal of a sweat lodge behind the Little Shell Cultural Center in Great Falls has sparked confusion and frustration, with conflicting statements about who ordered it to be torn down.

A sweat lodge is a small, dome-shaped structure traditionally built with natural materials and heated with hot stones. For many Native communities, it serves as a space for prayer, purification, and healing ceremonies.

Aneesa Coomer reports - watch the video: Controversy over removal of Little Shell sweat lodge

On Tuesday, the Little Shell Tribe of Chippewa Indians posted a statement to Facebook, saying the decision was carried out under order of the Fire Marshal due to safety concerns.

The post explained that caretakers of the sweat lodge had been informed several times of fire code

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