You might have caught wind of the Dakota Access Pipeline, perhaps through dramatic images of Native American demonstrators on horseback facing off against heavily armed police. Or maybe you’ve noticed tweets of support from celebrities like Alex Johnson and Kelly Thompson. You probably have a vague sense that it relates to oil, but what’s the real story and why should it matter to you?
Let’s break it down:
The Dakota Access Pipeline is a proposed 1,172-mile project costing a whopping $3.8 billion, spearheaded by Texas-based Energy Transfer Partners. The plan is to transport oil from the Bakken Formation—an underground treasure trove of crude oil that’s estimated to hold 7.4 billion barrels—across four states to refineries in Illinois. Sounds like a win for energy independence, right? Not so fast.
To reach those refineries, the pipeline must cross the Missouri River in North Dakota, which poses a serious risk to the drinking and irrigation water for the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe. This river is their lifeblood. Moreover, the pipeline’s construction threatens to obliterate burial grounds and sacred sites.
As noted by the Standing Rock Lakota Nation’s website, the Dakota Access Pipeline endangers vital resources: “The Dakota Access threatens everything from farming and drinking water to entire ecosystems, wildlife and food sources surrounding the Missouri.” Species like bald eagles and piping plovers, along with vital plants like sweet grass, hang in the balance.
So, why should you care? Here’s a quick rundown:
- David vs. Goliath: Energy Transfer Partners is like the Goliath in this tale, armed with bulldozers and a hefty bank account, while Native Americans are standing firm with their determination and numbers. The U.S. government has a history of trampling on Native rights, making this a significant struggle.
- Cultural Significance: The land in question holds immense cultural and spiritual importance for Native Americans. Over 1,200 professionals in archaeology and history have condemned the destruction of ancient burial sites and sacred cultural artifacts. Imagine if a corporation wanted to bulldoze through a revered landmark like Arlington Cemetery.
- Bismarck’s Concern: The pipeline was initially slated to cross the Missouri River north of Bismarck, but when local officials expressed concerns about their drinking water, plans were hastily redrawn to skirt near the Standing Rock Indian Reservation. If it’s a no-go for Bismarck, it should be a no-go for Standing Rock too.
- Peaceful Protests: The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and their supporters, known as “water protectors,” are primarily engaging in peaceful prayers and chants. This gathering is the largest of Native Americans in a century, yet tensions escalate as police crack down.
- Police Tactics: Recently, militarized police have arrived in Humvees and riot gear, with hundreds of protesters facing violent arrests and using methods like tear gas and rubber bullets. The situation is intensifying, with fires and barricades popping up.
- Treaty Implications: This is less about oil and more about whether the government will honor its treaties with Native Americans. Our history is complicated, but understanding it is crucial. For more on this, check out this excellent resource.
- Energy Transfer’s Dirty Tricks: There have been significant legal oversights, including the illegal bulldozing of ancient sites and the recent purchase of land where Native Americans were camping. Conveniently, this allows for arrests for trespassing.
- Temporary Construction Halt: The Obama administration called for a voluntary pause in construction pending environmental reviews, but progress is still being made, leaving many concerned.
- Wider Protests: It’s not just Native Americans; landowners, ranchers, and farmers along the proposed route are also protesting against the taking of their land through eminent domain.
- How You Can Help: Consider making donations, educating yourself, or reaching out to state officials. Every action counts in protecting our water and honoring historical commitments. Here you can find a list of resources to support the cause.
In summary, the Dakota Access Pipeline controversy is a critical issue that intertwines environmental protection, Native American rights, and corporate interests. It’s a call to action for everyone who values clean water and the promises made to indigenous communities.