A group of people gathered in Salina over the weekend to show support for an event that is happening 650 miles to the north.

The gathering in Salina was in solidarity with those who have set up camp in North Dakota in protest of a controversial proposed oil pipeline. The Dakota Access oil pipeline would carry crude oil across an 1,100 mile stretch of land that includes waterways, and sacred native American sites.

A gathering in Salina’s Indian Rock Park was in solidarity, and in support of, those who have gathered at the Standing Rock Sioux reservation near the Missouri River. Those in Salina played drums, chanted, and danced.

Organizers told KSAL News at the event that the purpose was very simple. To show support, and raise awareness, for what is happening in North Dakota.

 

The gathering at Standing Rock has been called the largest gathering of indigenous nations in modern American history. They have set up a large encampment, tents and teepees, on Army Corps of Engineers land in North Dakota. Hundreds of people from across the country have gathered to protest the Dakota Access oil pipeline.

Opponents say the pipeline will adversely impact drinking water, and disturb sacred tribal sites including the Standing Rock Sioux reservation.

Supporters say it would enable crude oil from North Dakota to reach major refineries while reducing more dangerous rail and truck transport.