You may not know about this giant pipeline that the government approved a few months ago, but as its construction continues near and through Native American tribal and sacred lands, a large contingent of protectors is try to stop the Dakota Access Pipeline. Treaty rights, human rights and environmental rights are all in play as well as a government agency not following the law and big oil companies pushing for expedited permitting. Hundreds of tribal governments have sent support and representatives to take a stand along with many others concerned about continuing fossil fuel production in the face of ever increasing global warming.
The main protector encampment is in North Dakota near the home of the Standing Rock Sioux, but there is also a group trying to stop construction of this "black snake" in Iowa.
Several environmental and human rights groups are also supporting the protectors including the Sierra Club and 350.org who have called for a National Day of Action on Tuesday, September 13 to stop yet another Bakken oil pipeline.
If you haven't heard of this issue, it's not a surprise. There has been almost a total broadcast media blackout. For continuing coverage including interviews with tribal members, attorneys, historians, environmentalists, elders, scientists, and activists, check Democracy Now! or Indian Country Today.
If an event is organized for La Crosse, we will post details here. In the meantime, you may wish to learn more about this issue, let others know, donate to help the protectors continue, and connect with the broader picture like our own "black snake" troubles that threatens water with the mile long oil trains that still slither through our communities daily and the recent decision by the state Department of Transportation to only fund transportation solutions in our area that include more roads for more private cars. (By the way, today marks the start of the Citizen Climate Pledge.)
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