2016 has been a pivotal and challenging year for many people in the United States. However, one of the biggest feats we now face is the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). The controversy surrounding the pipeline is immense. It is a 1,172 mile pipeline that would channel crude oil from production in North Dakota to refineries in Illinois. The purpose of the pipeline is to decrease the nation’s dependency on foreign imports of crude oil – but it would violate the rights of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
The DAPL’s route crosses Lake Oahe and runs less than half a mile from the reservation’s border. Lake Oahe provides fresh water to the Sioux Tribe, and the pipeline could cause serious contamination. How could the pipeline be approved if it endangers drinking water? When the route was being questioned for approval, Dakota Access completely left the Sioux Tribe Reservation off the maps and out of the conversation.
Not only would the water supply of the tribe be at risk, but it would run through sacred places to the tribe. The importance of burial sites and spiritual grounds to the Native American people is vital to their culture and way of life. Discussion with the tribe regarding their lands is protected under federal law. There were no discussions with the Sioux people regarding the DAPL.
Time and time again, Native American people are being taken advantage of by the federal government. We’ve seen this in our nation’s history. I believe that it is time to stand up and fight against this ill-treatment.
The protests at Standing Rock are completely peaceful. The Sioux Tribe has made it clear that they do not want violence – only peace and prayer. It is inspiring that after a history of oppression, the Sioux people are still respectful and honorable.
The Standing Rock Sioux tribe needs support. We all must come together in support of the Sioux tribe and do what we can to ban the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
The Army Corps sent the Chief of the Sioux Tribe a letter saying that if the people residing at the Oceti Sakowin Camp (where the protests are occurring) don’t leave, then they will be charged with trespassing. No one is moving.
In support of “eviction day,” there is an event at Michigan’s Capitol building in Lansing to stand with the Sioux Tribe, since being in North Dakota is not possible for many. The event begins at 1 p.m on Dec. 5 and will be 100 percent peaceful.
Stand up against the big oil companies, but more importantly, stand with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe.
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