Dear Daily Kos community,
It has been some time since I’ve posted here. It’s good to be back. As you know, the fight is on at Standing Rock, which, for those that don’t know, is my home. I’ve been on the ground, working with our tribe’s leaders on strategy, speaking with the media, and doing what I can to make sure this movement remains true to its principles and uncompromising in its commitment to Lakota sovereignty.
For three months the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and our allies have taken a stand against the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL). If completed, the pipeline would shuttle half a million barrels of oil per day under the Missouri River. Even the smallest leak could destroy the water supply for our tribe and the two million other people who live downstream. Those of us who have been protesting refer to ourselves as “Water Protectors,” because Water is Life—Mni Wikoni. And despite the constant challenges we face, we remain steadfast. The threats against us, however, are growing.
I come before this community today to ask for your support. Through the Lakota People’s Law Project, we have launched a petition calling on President Obama to keep the peace at Standing Rock and not allow the evacuation of our camps—not by the Governor, not by local police, not by private security squads, not by anyone.
As well documented by Amy Goodman, the oil company hoping to exploit our sacred treaty land, Energy Transfer Partners, brought in private security personnel who unleashed attack dogs on our people. Last week, in sub-freezing temperatures, local police fired tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons into our peaceful crowds. A concussion grenade struck a young girl, Sophie Wilansky, who may now have her arm amputated. All of this occurred under the watch of Mr. Dalrymple.
Now, just hours ago, the governor ordered the Water Protectors to evacuate our camps along the Missouri River. He has no authority to clear the land, which is managed by the federal Army Corps of Engineers.
That’s why we’re calling on President Obama to inform Dalrymple that the State of North Dakota has no jurisdiction whatsoever over the treaty land we are occupying.
This moment is an opportunity to join a growing alliance standing for indigenous rights and the protection of our Mother Earth. f you haven’t already, I ask you, please stand with Standing Rock.
In Unity,
Chase Iron Eyes
South Dakota Counsel, Lakota People’s Law Project