As we all gather for Thanksgiving, the loving holiday with a dark history, it’s hard not to think of the ongoing protests revolving around the human rights and treaty violations happening daily at Standing Rock.

Having occupied their tribal lands in protest since April, the water protectors continue to try and stop the environmental onslaught being caused by the corporation behind the Dakota Access Pipeline.

Despite silence from President Obama and other leadership, awareness of the horrific violation of peaceful protesters has grown, and now most are at least aware of what is going on.

The investors and money may want the protesters to stand down, but they don’t plan to. If the water protectors can hold out until January, there is a chance that the entire pipeline may be scrapped – it’s the best shot they’ve got.

To aid in this goal, a slew of veterans are planning to “deploy” to the protest site next week to join the fight against the Oil Police.

Veterans Stand for Standing Rock will begin on December 4, and hundreds of U.S. veterans are expected to attend. A GoFundMe page for the event has reached half of its deadline and is still growing.

It is heartening to see that those who have fought for this country’s freedom recognize a dearth of freedom in North Dakota. For these veterans, the line in their oath about protecting their nation from enemies both foreign and domestic is set to be tested.

 

Sydney Robinson is a political writer for the Ring of Fire Network. She has also appeared in political news videos for Ring of Fire. Sydney has a degree in English Literature from the University of West Florida, and has an active interest in politics, social justice, and environmental issues. She would love to hear from you on Twitter @SydneyMkay or via email at srobinson@ringoffireradio.com