Pipeline Protest
Native American Land Rights & Pipeline Protest
Overview
What is a pipeline?
A pipeline is a way to get gasoline for cars and trucks from its source to another place where people can use it. These pipes are hundreds of miles long because gas is in places where there are not many people, and it needs to go to big cities where people will use it. Some pipelines are built underground, others are built above the ground. Pipelines cost a lot of money to build, and the companies make a lot of money from selling gas.
What is a pipeline leak or gas spill?
Over time or because of poor building, sometimes pipelines leak or spill gas out into the environment. When the gas leaks/spills, it causes problems in the environment because water gets contaminated, land gets covered in gas, and animals will not be able to survive there.
First, Learn About the History
The U.S. Government and many tribes signed the Laramie Treaty, but then the U.S. broke the treaty when gold was found on the land
What do you need to know about the Dakota Access Pipeline?
Second, Listen to Native People's Stories
Native people and allies call themselves water protectors, not protesters.
What are the Issues Today?
What does a sacred place mean for Native Americans?
Peaceful protestors against the Dakota Access Pipeline were arrested
The pipeline that was built started to leak gas in many places
Leaks in the Dakota Access pipeline are causing problems with the environment. It is also making drinking water unsafe.
Even though the Dakota Access Pipeline was stopped by the government, it still continues to be used illegally.