Remember Standing Rock? That protest was the inspiration for this painting. Across the world, many were outraged when reading the news about the proposed Dakota Access Pipeline that would run beneath the Missouri River and through reservation land. This was a direct threat to the region’s drinking water, as well as to the water supply used to irrigate surrounding farmlands. The construction would disturb ancient burial grounds and cultural sites of historic importance.
When I was 16-years old, attending an all-girl Catholic High School in San Francisco, we were required to choose a research project. I chose to investigate the status of Native American Tribes across the United States. I sent letters off to the Bureau of Indian Affairs and various tribal affiliates. I received lots of mail in return. And reading material. I was shocked to realize the poverty that our First Citizens were living in. And to read about the high rate of alcoholism was upsetting. Also, it struck me that a salesman would visit a tribe and sell them refrigerators when he knew full well that they didn’t even have electricity!
Doing this research, the Native American Peoples found a place in my heart.
How many times do the powers that be violate a treaty, withdraw support, move tribes around, encroach on Native American lands and lives before they realize that it’s morally wrong and stop doing it? Here is one question to be asked in such instances: “How would I feel if it was happening to me and my family?”
If your answer is something like “I would protest!” Or “That’s not right!” Then, why should it be different for the tribes of Standing Rock (or any other group of people)? Don’t they want to protect their families like I do? Don’t they deserve respect like I do? Why do their rights matter less than mine or yours? Is it too late to make amends?
Today, I read a recent article on the present day state of affairs around the DAPL–Dakota Access Pipeline…
“Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Prevails
as Federal Judge Strikes Down DAPL Permits“
This is a victory, but the battle isn’t over. One cannot assume that once a right is won, it is forever sealed and held sacred. But for now, a victory.
A dear friend traveled to standing rock and stood with the people in solidarity in opposition to DAPL. She expressed that there were other benefits of being there. To witness the tribes who had once opposed each other, here, standing together for a common cause was powerful in and of itself. Something for all of us who find ourselves in such oppositions today to learn from. The expression “United we stand. Divided we fall” was directly experienced.
“Pray under the sky
bare feet on the ground,
humbly. That you may
feel the connection with
all that is and live from
It is so.”
I believe that this prayer is from Dr. Clarissa Pinkola Estes.