The Dakota Access Pipeline is said to be something that is overall a good idea. With an approximate 1,172-mile pipeline, it will transport crude oil from North Dakota to refining markets. It is said to be direct, cost effective, safer, and environmentally friendly. But, they ran into a big problem. The pipeline would cut through indigenous land. The Standing Rock Sioux Tribe’s land was a huge part of the plan for the pipeline.

After, what seemed like year of protesting for some people, the construction has been delayed and the route has been denied. The community, you can even say the entire country, teamed up for nothing but a victory. Their support came from people of all types. From fellow tribes to our veterans. One person who this is particularly close to home for is Tipiziwin Tolman. She is from Standing Rock and had a lot to share. When asked what the impact of situation was for tribes all over she stated “It’s empowering. It’s powerful to be such a disenfranchised people and to be able to stand up strong against injustices. The support from other tribal peoples and from people all over the world is so amazing.” When asked about her thoughts on the situation she said “I am happy, proud, I believe in all the reasons we have stood up against the oil companies and the attack on our water. It very much is an act of aggression.” No matter what the choice is for the pipeline, our number one priority should be taking care of our people.