It was deeply moving to see so many indigenous people from not only Turtle Island but all over the world now, come together in this way. The beautiful flags line the entrance to camp and the energy is hard to describe in words. Over 260 Nations are represented (with more arriving every day), the largest of any such gathering since Wounded Knee in 1973.
I will say that the supplies we brought…lumber, firewood, a wood burning stove, and much more…were met with full gratitude, and sometimes even baffled amazement at the support pouring in from many directions.
My girls had many questions. “Why are all the United States flags upside down?” “Why doesn’t the government just tell the oil company they can’t do that?” “Why are some people so greedy? Don’t they see that they are hurting people?” I did my best to answer but there were some hard questions.
Contrary to some news floating around on FB, construction has not stopped as Obama “requested” within the 20 mile area on either side of the Missouri River and the sacred sites. There is a commitment to peaceful but direct action every day at the sites. And there are several lawsuits pending against Dakota Access for their avoidance of following legal protocol with permits and construction, so any donations to the legal fund and the camp are hugely appreciated.
If you feel called to go, do it. Your presence and support would be most welcome. Go with a humble heart, show up in service and with an ear ready to listen.
This is not just about water. This is about choosing care for the planet and the people over greed and power.
This is history in the making, and most news sources aren’t even mentioning it.
When we stopped at the gas station before driving home, the headline on the local paper was something about the construction deadline being delayed because the native folks are causing trouble. And the extra cost that would be for the company. Wow.
So please continue sharing and spreading the word.
It’s long overdue that the Earth and the indigenous people of this planet are treated with the respect they deserve.
What kind of world do we want our children and grandchildren to inherit?
