Dakota Pipeline: Protesters Soaked With Water in Freezing Temperatures
Tear gas, freezing cold water and rubber bullets were used to disperse a crowd of 400 protesters at the Dakota Access Pipeline in clashes late Sunday and early Monday that left more than 150 activists and one law enforcement officer injured.
Standing Rock Sioux Chairman Dave Archambault II told NBC News that between 200-300 people were transported late Sunday night to a gymnasium on the Standing Rock Sioux reservation for treatment for hypothermia, facial and hand wounds, and other minor injuries. Approximately seven people with more serious injuries — including two elders who were tear gassed and who suffered near cardiac arrest — were sent to a hospital in Bismarck for emergency treatment, said Archambault.
He said the tribe was reaching out to the White House Monday with a request that the Obama administration intervene "due to the threat to public safety at Standing Rock."
"From the beginning, we've had water protectors attacked by guard dogs, rubber bullets and mace. Last night, law enforcement upped the ante by using exploding tear gas canisters and water cannons in sub-freezing temperatures," said Archambault. "There's no telling what law enforcement will do next."
For those not aware of the issue, read:
http://www.vox.com/2016/9/9/12862958/dakota-access-pipeline-fightPresident Obama is refusing to help. Native Americans and sympathetic protesters are being injured by law enforcement armed with military grade assault weapons, armored clothing, helmets, assault rifles and riot water cannons.
Do you believe the U.S. Government is incapable of protecting its citizens from harm in this case due to bias over the desire to complete the pipeline? Is that bias placing its citizens at deadly risk? Do you agree with the governments stance and actions toward the protesters? Should the United Nations send independent inspectors and arbiters to investigate and attempt to assist with protecting the safety of those involved?
