By Julia Delmedico | 3 Generations Intern
Land Protectors, not Protesters.
Native nations from across the U.S. and The Americas are protesting the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline in North Dakota, This is the largest gathering of Native Nations in over 130 years.
These land “protectors” are trying to prevent the construction of the pipeline under the Missouri River, a river they have been granted full rights over by treaties in the past, and this right is being violated. The building of the pipeline threatens drinking water, and has already soiled their tribal lands. Ancestral burial grounds have already been destroyed.
Our executive director, Jane Wells, went to gather stories and bear witness to the incredible organization and dedication of the people at the protest camps. 8,000 people were present at #SacredStoneCamp and #RedWarriorCamp in Cannon Ball, North Dakota. This was not our first visit, in 2014 we met and filmed Standing Rock Sioux Tribal Chairman David Archembault II, to hear his perspective on the Treaty Rights of his people to safe drinking water. We made a short video to explain his position.
Of the many stories we recorded in September, we want to share with you the intriguing work of Leta Killer-Bailly, who spent 2 1/2 days traversing the camp and talking to residents and then hand-drew this map. She asked each group what they wished to call their section and noted their wishes. Now if someone is sick, ambulances can quickly find that person and get them the help they need. Her effort is an example of the practical logistics that can literally save lives. This is just one of the myriad details that are required to keep an historical event like this safe and functional. Kudos to Leta. She created a beautiful thing within a beautiful and peaceful event. Not a protest, but a protect.
Our feature documentary, A Different American Dream will premiere on Oct. 15, 2016 at the Margaret Mead at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City, This film focuses on the neighboring Fort Berthold Indian Reservation and members of the MHA Nation who are trying to save their land from exploitation by big oil companies. It will screen at other Festivals across the world. Check our website Facebook pages for news and updates. At 3 Generations we are dedicated to gathering and sharing the stories of Native Americans.
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