9 reflections from Standing Rock — day 1

Tonight completes my first 24 hours at Standing Rock.Some reflections from the first night at Oceti Sakowin camp:

1- the groups of people out here are extremely diverse. I met people from Turkey, Paris, Mexico, Miami, NYC, LA, Austin, Dallas and the list goes on. I met women in their 70s, who road tripped from Oregon with supplies, I met college dropouts from Connecticut who have been here for 3 months, a mom of 6 from Arizona, 2 under 10 kids who came with their parents, a race expert, a fashion photographer, and the list goes on. I have not met yet anyone who has been to burning man.

2- different people are here for different reasons: some because they want to take action against status quo, and realize that this is the place where it’s at. Some because they are not working and want to be of service and find community. I heard from someone that they came so they can inspire people in their community to take action too. Another big topic, is the environment, future of our children and the contamination of water. One person said they feel guilty for what their country has done to the Native Americans, and believe it’s the least they can do.

3- what felt really brings people together underneath it all, is a discontent with the system, and a distrust that it cares about citizens’ wellbeing

4- some people give and some people take more than they give. And just like in any society it feels like that here.

5- There is a lot to do, and participating in an action is a small part of it, a lot of construction of structures, wood chopping, dish washing with ice water, cooking and tasks that require physical movement, are needed to keep this village running

6- It’s freezing, but if you have the right supplies, it’s doable and you can be outside and do work

7- It is not dangerous, unless you choose to participate in an action, which you have to be trained for. And many actions start and end peacefully. You can come here, and stay at other camps that are not at front line and stay safe from arrest.

8- there is SO much to learn about the Native American culture, history and legacy that I have homework to do, and my understanding is most of us do too. The best way I found is to listen.

9- there is ongoing prayer, and it has been beautiful to be in an environment that is sacred. It opened up my heart, and allowed me to slow down.

And the sunset was glorious.

More to come tomorrow.

Love,

Jessica