STANDING ROCK
I have subscribed to Indian Life for many years and share it with my Indian and “white” friends as well as folks in jail. It has been a real encouragement to all.
Your last issue (Jan-Feb 2017) is informative and interesting. However, the article “Standing Rock water protectors wait and see after huge victory” concerned me very much. Most of it [the protests] was political and for “show”. Most of the people were bussed in and paid to protest. They not only closed a bridge, but made a royal mess of the area. Actually the Billings Gazette said the local Indians had asked the protestors to leave (Billings Gazette, Jan. 23).
The pipeline builders will offer jobs to anyone willing to work, and will leave the topical area as they found it. I believe the Indians will be satisfied with the jobs that the pipeline offers plus the consideration given by President Trump to the Natives.
Your paper is usually positive and encouraging. I hope it stays that way.
L.H., Montana
Editor’s Note: We appreciate your letter. As with almost every situation, there are always two or more sides. In the case of the Standing Rock pipeline protests, yes it is true that groups of protestors were bussed in but we also personally know of many people who paid for their own travel and expenses while they were there and they went only to pray for the situation, bringing food, winter clothing, and were there to observe the situation. To our knowledge, no jobs have been offered to the local Indigenous people in the area.
STRAIGHT GOODS!
I just want to say I really enjoy reading your North American and American news regarding First Nation people. I’m also proud to be a supporter and a follower! Straight goods! I am currently in jail in British Columbia.
I just thought to let you guys know what I think of your newspaper. I’m an Aboriginal gang leader of a gang in B.C. and I’m wondering if Indian Life can write an article on Aboriginal gangs in North America and the effects it has on the Aboriginal people.
L.N., British Columbia
