It’s so much bigger than I knew originally. The protest started back in August and has now grown to encompass so many different lives. The protest, first and foremost is for the water access of the Sioux tribe along the pipeline, but has now come to include the environmentalists concerned about the North Dakota oil boom.
Many environmentally concerned celebrities have taken to the protest in an effort to use their platform to raise awareness of the plight of the Native American peoples and the environmental crisis currently in the works. Some famous names include: Mark Ruffalo, Shailene Woodley, Colton Haynes and so many more
The issue with the pipeline is that it could contaminate the only source of water for the tribe as well as destroy sacred tribal sites for the Standing Rock Sioux.
The Army Corps of Engineers, the company in charge of constructing the pipeline has reportedly claimed to be interested in the input of the Standing Rock Sioux but to no avail as the construction and plans for the pipeline continue despite the growing protests.
A camp for protesters is located near Canon Ball, ND. Over 280 native American tribes have flocked to this area in a show of support for the protest, as well as environmentalists from around the country concerned for the future of these people as well as the governments disinterest in environmental issues.
“Water is Life” is the resounding theme of the Standing Rock Sioux, who recognize not only their drinking water source is at stake but can include disastrous side effects for others downstream of the source. The protesters continue to have hope that the pipeline can be stopped peacefully without violence. However, as the protest has worn on certain incidents have arisen concerning the protesters and police officers standing guard over the pipeline construction.
This protest also brings to mind the situation of Flint, Michigan-another situation in which the water was already contaminated and the people of the city began to reap the effects of poor government judgement. This protest hopes to prevent a similar situation arising from the actions of the pipeline companies in North Dakota. While tose involved remain optimistic, it is important to remember their efforts and send support to those willing to sacrifice their time and energy for the future of the Native American people involved.
As you spend time with your families for the holidays please remember those who are not able to because of their choice to protest this company’s decision in hopes of a cleaner, greener future.
Ways to Get Involved:
#NODAPL
The official protest's website can be found here: https://nodaplsolidarity.org/
