On December 4, 2016, the Army Corps of Engineers delivered unexpected news to the thousands gathered at the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation: they would not issue a permit for the Dakota Access Pipeline to complete its segment beneath Lake Oahe, which crosses sacred Native American land. This decision effectively puts a stop to the construction of the 1,172-mile oil pipeline, situated just half a mile from the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation, as reported by NPR. The protests, which originated from the Sacred Stone Camp established by activist LaDonna Brave Bull Allard in April, grew to be the largest assembly of Native Americans in a century, with a continuous influx of supporters.
In a statement, Jo-Ellen Darcy, the Army’s assistant secretary for Civil Works, explained, “Although we have had ongoing discussions with the Standing Rock Sioux and Dakota Access, it’s clear that more work is needed. The best way to responsibly and swiftly complete that work is to explore alternative routes for the pipeline.”
Tribal Chairman David Archambault III expressed deep gratitude, stating, “We fully support the administration’s decision and commend President Obama, the Army Corps, and the Department of Justice for taking steps to correct the course of history. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe and all of Indian Country will always be thankful for this historic action.”
The pipeline was projected to transport up to 470,000 barrels of crude oil daily, alarming tribal members who feared it could contaminate drinking water and disturb sacred sites, including potential burial grounds of Sitting Bull. The New York Times highlighted that numerous burial sites and other significant cultural areas lie alongside Lake Oahe. Furthermore, construction crews had already caused damage to “sacred places containing ancient burial sites and places of prayer,” as noted by Archambault in September.
The protests have been marked by instances of police brutality, including the use of aggressive dogs and water hoses in freezing conditions. Many protesters faced violent arrests, pepper spray, and tear gas, while police deployed rubber bullets and Long Range Acoustic Devices (LRADs), capable of causing permanent hearing loss. The situation escalated to the point where 2,000 veterans arrived to protect the demonstrators from law enforcement and DAPL security.
Following the announcement, celebratory scenes erupted in protest camps and across the Sioux Reservation. However, some urged caution. Jan Hasselman, an attorney for the tribe, warned, “They [Energy Transfer Partners] can sue, and the new administration might attempt to reverse this.” Tribal member Frank Archambault voiced skepticism, stating, “It’s not over until the drill is shut down—we’ve been deceived before.”
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In summary, the Army Corps of Engineers’ decision represents a significant victory for the Standing Rock protesters, who have tirelessly fought to protect their land and water from the Dakota Access Pipeline. While celebrations are underway, lingering concerns remain about the pipeline’s future and the potential for legal action.