Letter Re: What is Your (HJL and JWR) Take on the Dakota Access Issue?

I’m having difficulty understanding the Dakota Access issue. What is your take on the situation? The reporting that I’ve seen has been scarce and one-sided.

I thought I read that the initial proposed route was outside of sacred land, but the proposal was rejected. This prompted the police to intervene.

Recently I saw the new route would go right through a large watershed area. Understandably the Indigenous People are concerned.

Is this truly police overstepping their bounds and once again violating trust with Indigenous Peoples yet again?

I’ve been in and out of the hospital recently, so if you covered this already, I’m sorry to ask again. – Eric X.

HJL’s Comment: As usual, there is more than meets the eye, especially when the mainstream media is involved. In addition to the media promoting the violence that is taking place, I am hearing concerns that the Indian groups involved are basically trying to renegotiate the agreements for much higher payments. At this point, it is difficult to know the real truth, but doubting what you hear is always a good policy when it’s coming from the media.