Early December 4, those fighting for #NoDAPL erupted with happiness knowing that the Army Corps of Engineers denied a key permit that would allow the pipeline to cross under the lake. While this is an amazing win for the systematically oppressed Native Americans, it is important for us as a population to not close the book of their story with a seemingly happy ending.

According to CNN, the companies, “Energy Transfer Partners and Sunoco Logistics Partners who are behind the Dakota Access Pipeline, said in a statement Sunday night they ‘fully expect to complete construction of the pipeline without any additional rerouting in and around Lake Oahe.’”

One can argue this statement is a sore loser appeasing the loss or one can take this statement seriously. If those two companies are serious, the media might be painting a falsely optimistic picture that will lead everyone to believe the protesters have won their fight.

The companies also stated:
“Nothing this Administration has done today changes that in any way”

While focusing on the good is important, it is more important now than ever that we, as a nation, continue to push harder against those who want to build this pipeline that can potentially poison and kill thousands. Whether we like it or not, this is environmental genocide since the company abruptly switched gears to run the pipeline through Native Americans land rather than through a predominately white area. As the term genocide is, “The deliberate killing of a large group of people, especially those of a particular ethnic group or nation.” And with the new President-elect, Donald Trump, it is nerve wracking to see what will happen regarding this population. Remember that Mr. Trump is for the pipeline because of its so-called economic reasons; however, he doesn’t seem concerned with killing thousands in exchange for “carv[ing] up to $1.00 from every bushel of corn shipped” (daplpipelinefacts).

So, yes, celebrate, but don’t forget. The threat is still very real, and if popular support, recognition, and outcry end, those protesting will have to suffer in silence because everyone thought the war ended. We as a nation, regardless of who is in power, have a responsibility to take action and speak for those who cannot.

#NoDAPL