Construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline had been planned to run 10 miles north of Bismarck, hooking up to an existing pipeline in Illinois. It would carry 470,000 barrels of Dakota crude daily. The route was changed due to its proximity to residential areas, conservation easements and to water. Without consultation with First Nations, it was re-routed to the northern edge of the Standing Rock Sioux Rez and cross the Missouri River, the source of drinking water for the Sioux. It would also disturb sacred burial sites.

Larry Towell recently visited the protest camp where the largest Indian gathering in over a century, an estimated 5000 persons representing 250 native tribes as well as environmental and human rights activists, came from all over North and South America to offer their solidarity and commitment to stopping the pipeline. The gathering evolved into a First Nations awakening of identity, culture, and community. The atmosphere was prayerful, peaceful, and respectful. The rules were simple: No cursing. No alcohol. No drugs. No weapons (rare for North Dakota). Dress modestly….They were digging their heels in for the winter.
-Larry Towell, September 2016