DAPL Cops Evict Treaty Camp as Buffalo Nation Arrive
by Darren Moore
The North Camp, located north of the main Oceti Sakowin camp, stood as a symbol of resistance against the Dakota Access Pipeline, a threat to treaty rights and the environment. But as the protectors of this sacred land prepared to defend it, they were met with a formidable show of force that sought to quell their determination.
Federal law, with its supposed adherence to the Constitution, should have been on the side of the water protectors. But as the events of this fateful day unfolded, it became clear that laws were nothing more than a tool of oppression, and on this day they were wielded by a pipeline company and the state of North Dakota with ruthless abandon.is
Attack on North Camp
Morton County, the state of North Dakota, and private security forces descended upon the camp, their ranks filled with military-clad enforcers armed with an arsenal of weapons and supported by imposing military vehicles. The sight was overwhelming, as the protectors looked upon the forces arrayed against them with a mixture of fear and determination.
As this scene from a dystopian movie played out, determined protectors refused to run and stood with conviction in their cause. The forces, equipped with less-than-lethal weapons and LRAD sound cannons, as well as tear gas, prepared to use all necessary measures to quell the resistance. And then they did. As the camps were cleared, the protectors watched tearfully as sacred items were desecrated and their homes were destroyed by Morton County Sherrifs.
But even in the face of this overwhelming show of force, the protectors stood their ground. Then, as if the ancestors had heard their cries, the Pte Oyate, or Buffalo Nation, made a powerful appearance as a group ran over the hills just a few hundred meters from the road, their thundering hooves symbolizing the unbroken spirit of the people.
But the power of the buffalo’s spiritual presence was not enough to deter the aggression. In a heartless display of force, a DAPL helicopter swooped down, recklessly endangering the majestic creatures and shattering the peaceful moment. The sight of the helicopter hovering menacingly overhead only served to amplify the callous disregard for life and nature shown by the attackers.
Resolve
As the afternoon wore on, the protectors did not relent, with native drumming, singing and prayers ringing out amidst the chaos. Despite this overwhelming use of force, the protectors refused to be intimidated, even as the camp was systematically destroyed and nearly 150 protectors were arrested. The rest were slowly pushed back towards the main camp as the police and DAPL security established a new front on the Backwater Bridge on Highway 1806 – cutting off the entire reservation from an essential route into nearby Bismark that is essential to those living on the reservation, for trade, work, family and emergencies.
The protectors’ bravery and unwavering spirit ignited a fire in the hearts of all who witnessed their stand today. Their courage was a testament to the strength of the human spirit and a call to action for those at the camp and across the reservation. The protectors inspired awe and deep admiration, their defiance against all odds fueling a newfound resolve to continue the fight, even as Highway 1806 was cut off. The protectors’ spirit of resistance and their unwavering determination in the face of adversity will forever be remembered.
