Picture yourself out in the middle of nowhere, camped out in frigid temperatures, waking up every morning knowing that you have to fight against fellow humans who are ready to spray you down with water cannons and pepper spray. This is the reality that is facing so many brave indigenous people and water protectors opposing the Dakota Access Pipe Line right now.
It is a true act of courage to be able to stand up to these people and fight. It's clear that this is no small concern. Water is life. Putting a pipeline under one of the longest rivers in North America is a death sentence. The impact of a spill would be disastrous for all walks of life. Unfortunately big oil has been able to convince governments to fight against the very people they are supposed to serve. It's a sad trend that we've seen happen all over the world. Pipelines are being approved all over North America (in fact, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau just approved another two yesterday), but we are not hopeless.
One of my favourite quotes is by Burmese Political Prisoner, Aung San Suu Kyi. She was placed under house arrest for 15 years, but never lost her resolve. She said
"If you're feeling helpless, help someone."
When I heard about the atrocities at Standing Rock, I knew I had to try to help in some way. The issue of Indigenous rights is something that is close to my heart. I feel deeply for these people who have been violated over and over again, century after century. They see the long term impact of what we're doing now and how it affects future generations. I knew it was time to stand strong and help them fight for the wellbeing of our planet.
So that's why we decided to donate 100% of our profits from Giving Tuesday to support the water protectors at Standing Rock. We're so grateful to have a community of conscious and caring people who are willing to help out.
We're happy to announce that in one day, we raised $3536 to support Standing Rock water protectors. This money will help with providing supplies, legal services, and any other support needed to help the resistance.
Water is Life.
Here's a link to more information on how you can help:
http://www.yesmagazine.org/people-power/the-many-ways-to-help-standing-rock-20161129
We're all in this together. As the old aboriginal saying goes,
"When the last tree is cut down, the last fish is eaten and the last stream is poisoned, you will realize that you cannot eat money."
#NoDAPL #StandWithStandingRock
Stand strong, stand together.
Leah Emmott
Founder, Inner Fire Apparel
