As tensions rise and rise, nature answers the call of hundreds of Native Americans to fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline.

I’m sure by now you are well aware of the increasing conflict regarding the Dakota Access Pipeline. Whether you’ve heard of star Shailene Woodley’s arrest for standing with the Sioux, or the wrongful abuse and forceful militarized backlash toward Water Protectors - Everyone can agree this is a huge issue going on in our country. If you’re not aware of what is going on, here’s a quick overview… Members of the Standing Rock Sioux have been standing out to protect the land and oppose the Dakota Access Pipeline. Over 100 people were arrested while attempting to block construction of the pipeline just last week. Energy Transfer Partners is trying to build a $3.8 billion pipeline to transport more than 500,000 barrels of oil a day across four states. The Standing Rock Sioux tribe was blindsided by the beginning of the construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline, as they were not consulted about the planned construction. Not only that, but ETP started construction before all the proper permits were in hand. There was no full environmental impact statement or a thorough review of construction implications. The pipeline will not only desecrate the land that is rightfully the Sioux’. It could also potentially/inevitably contaminate millions of American’s water supplies and other natural resources if a leak or spill were to happen (which already has happened). While Water Protectors (not protesters) have been speaking out against the pipeline as late as April of this year, things have escalated rapidly as of late due to the Protectors’ occupation of a piece of land that is directly in the path of construction. The land they are occupying they took under eminent domain, in reference to the Treaty of 1851, calling it the Treaty Camp. The Water Protectors have stood their ground, regardless of push back by police from six different states, and now the National Guard. They have locked arms, burned sage, set up a sweat lodge and prayed for protection of their land. In the wake of a history of broken promises to America’s Native peoples, this pipeline is the straw that broke the camel's back. Regardless of what you feel toward this situation, it’s clear that mother nature is definitely on the side of the Sioux and those wanting to protect the land and water. Late last week, during the protesting and authoritative push-back, a large herd of Buffalo answered the call of the Sioux. Known as Tatanka Oyate, bison are a symbol of sacrifice to the Native peoples, as they provide several means of survival. Native Americans have a strong spiritual tradition with Tatanka, believing the animal is a gift from the Great Spirit. In the midst of mass arrests, mace attacks, and extreme police brutality a stampede of bison came to the Sioux’ side. A cry of joy fell upon the Water Protectors. They had been praying for assistance from the Tatanka Oyate for protection. Check out the awesome video below. This video also features a young Native American man sharing his views on the pipeline and police force. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fetub0FvEwk   Now, the video's titles do exaggerate a bit and a lot of misinformation has been spreading from even major news sources (those who even cover this at all). It wasn't thousands of buffalo but it was a very large herd. Not to mention the timing and impact of the buffalo showing up to answer the prayers of the water protectors simply cannot be ignored. The bison aren't the only ones who came to support. The United State’s own national symbol made a surprising appearance as well. An eagle appeared at the Standing Rock Water Protectors camp for nearly an hour. The majestic creature allowed the Natives to pet and hang out near him. The Eagle is seen as a sacred messenger that carries prayers to the Creator, returning with gifts and visions, making this appearence especially significant.  The Eagle also teaches how to master the art of patience and how to move through life without material attachments… pretty fitting they show in the midst of corporate greed and rushed destruction and construction, huh?  

Not in North Dakota but want to help Native American efforts to stop DAPL? Click here for what you can do to help the Sioux.