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Essential question
What is the purpose of nonviolent action?On Sunday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers denied a permit for completion of the Dakota Access Pipeline, which would have come a half a mile south of the Standing Rock Sioux reservation in North Dakota. Instead, the Corps said it would begin to explore alternative routes. While members of the tribe and its allies celebrated the decision, some worry that the victory may only be temporary, given President-elect Donald Trump’s support for the almost 1,200 mile-long pipeline. North Dakota’s governor, the company and members of the state’s congressional delegation all denounced the decision. Members of the tribe have said for many months that the pipeline would destroy sacred lands and were worried an oil leak could threaten the tribe’s water supply. The head of the Standing Rock Sioux, tribal Chairman David Archambault II, told the thousands of protesters who have been camped out just north of the reservation that they can go home. As winter approached, worry has set in as to how protesters would cope in North Dakota’s subzero temperatures. However, most protesters continue to maintain their position, fearing the decision may be reversed once Trump takes office.
Key terms
U.S. Army Corp of Engineers — a branch of the U.S. Army responsible for many military and civil engineering projects
easement — a right to cross or otherwise use someone else's land for a specified purpose
Warm up questions ( before watching the video)
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What are some examples of nonviolent protest?
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What do you know about the situation involving the Dakota Access Pipeline?
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Why is there such a troubled history between the United States government and many Native American tribes?
Cr itical thinking questions ( after watching the video)
- Why were members of the Standing Rock Sioux tribe and others concerned about the pipeline?
- Why was Sunday’s announcement such a victory for Native Americans?
- Why might the protesters feel it is not yet safe to leave, despite the Army Corps announcement?
PBS NewsHour articles:
War whoops and hugs among ‘water protectors’ follow denied permit to Dakota Access
Trump team says he supports construction of Dakota Access oil pipeline
