In a surprising twist, the Army Corps of Engineers delivered jubilant news to the thousands of protesters at the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation on Sunday: they will not issue a permit for the Dakota Access Oil Pipeline to cross beneath Lake Oahe, a site of immense cultural significance. This decision effectively puts a stop to construction on the 1,172-mile pipeline, just half a mile south of the Sioux Reservation, as reported by NPR.
The protests began at Sacred Stone Camp, brought to life by LaDonna Brave Bull Allard in April, and quickly escalated into the largest Native American gathering in a century, drawing a constant flow of supporters from across the nation.
In an official statement, Jo-Ellen Darcy, the Army’s assistant secretary for Civil Works, noted, “Although we have had continuing discussions and exchanges of new information with the Standing Rock Sioux and Dakota Access, it’s clear that there’s more work to do. The best way to complete that work responsibly and expeditiously is to explore alternate routes for the pipeline crossing.”
Tribal Chairman David Archambault II expressed gratitude for the decision, stating, “We wholeheartedly support the decision of the administration and commend with the utmost gratitude the courage it took on the part of President Obama, the Army Corps, the Department of Justice, and the Department of the Interior to take steps to correct the course of history and do the right thing.” He continued, “The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and all of Indian Country will be forever grateful to the Obama Administration for this historic decision.”
The proposed pipeline was set to transport up to 470,000 barrels of oil daily, dangerously close to Sioux land, raising concerns about potential water pollution and the desecration of sacred sites. Notably, burial sites of the iconic Sitting Bull and countless other sacred areas lie near Lake Oahe. Chairman Archambault highlighted the destruction of these sacred locations by construction crews, which included ancient burial grounds and places of prayer.
The peaceful protests were marred by instances of police brutality, with reports of aggressive tactics including attack dogs and water hoses used in freezing temperatures. Many demonstrators faced violent arrests, pepper spray, and tear gas, leading to significant outcry. The situation became so dire that 2,000 veterans arrived to stand in solidarity with the protesters against the police and DAPL security forces.
As the news broke, spontaneous celebrations erupted in the protest camps and throughout the Sioux Reservation. However, caution was urged by some. Jan Hasselman, an attorney for the tribe, warned that Energy Transfer Partners could still pursue legal action, and with a new administration on the horizon, uncertainty loomed. “It’s a trick. It’s a lie,” warned tribal member Frank Archambault. “Until that drill is shut down, it’s not over yet.”
For more insights on related topics, check out this post on our other blog. If you’re interested in understanding the process of home insemination and the various methods to boost fertility, consider visiting Make A Mom. For more comprehensive information on IUI success rates, WebMD offers an excellent resource.
In closing, the Standing Rock protests have not only highlighted the resilience of Native American communities but also sparked a larger dialogue about environmental justice and the rights of indigenous peoples. The fight may not be over, but this moment stands as a beacon of hope for many.