“We wanted to sing her an honor song, a traveling song, to send her off in a good way, for all she did for our nation and for all native people, standing up for us, our sovereignty, and our treaty rights,” Strong said. “She would not only just work on our behalf, but she would be a part of our community. She came and participated in our community and our culture and our ceremonies, and she was very empowering.”

Annie Clarkin, 30, of Minneapolis, had not really been aware of Hortman before her death but said she was impressed as she learned of Hortman’s record. Clarkin attended the “No Kings” protest last week in St. Paul and returned for the vigil Wednesday with her service dog, Ruth.

“I’m really grateful for the work she’s done,” Clarkin said about Melissa Hortman. “I think she has a legacy that deserves to be honored.”

Ezra Jackson-Smith, 29, came with Andrew Hjermstad, 32, both of Minneapolis, and their dog Watson, a 10-year-old golden retriever and retired service dog. “It’s a really shocking moment to be in,” Jackson-Smith said.

As people trickled out of the vigil, Hjermstad said he saw the mood getting lighter.

“People are sharing stories. People are smiling,” he said. “It’s heartening to see.”