Nations Rise up at Washington, D.C.
by Benita Moore
The closure of the North Dakota camps has prompted the Water Protectors and Oceti Sakowin to gather in the nation’s capital. They have set up lodges under the Washington Memorial, where the sound of the big drum can be heard echoing through the air.
The Indigenous people of what is now North America have faced numerous challenges throughout history, but have persevered and are reclaiming their strength and heritage. Throughout history, colonial governments have employed cultural assimilation as a means to enrich the few at the cost of the many. This has often involved diluting the people’s cultural identity and autonomy through various means, such as separating families, suppressing dissent, and in some cases, attempting to eliminate Indigenous populations altogether. Throughout these adversities, the people have never stopped fighting for their rights and continue to protect their heritage with passion and determination.
Prophecy
Despite these efforts, the people have persevered. The beat of a drum, the taste of traditional foods, and indigenous humor are all evidence that the DNA of their identity has not been erased. Now, the seventh generation from the prophecy of Crazy Horse is taking action. With the guidance and wisdom of elders who have preserved their cultural traditions despite the traumatic effects of assimilation, the people are reclaiming and fiercely upholding their heritage.
These elders serve as living testimonies to the strength and resilience of their communities, sharing their stories and teachings with the next generations to ensure the continuation of their culture. Through their efforts, a new era of preservation and revitalization has emerged, as the people come together to honor their past and secure a vibrant future for their communities.
In Washington D.C., indigenous people of all ages have come together to assert their rights and preserve their heritage. They are standing up for their beliefs, fighting against oppressive forces, and striving to thrive as a community. With unwavering courage and deep-seated faith, they gather to pray in front of the White House, recognizing that true freedom lies in embracing their true identity and cultural heritage.
Hokahe! Mitakuye Oyasin.
