President Donald Trump promised to protect "all Americans" in his inaugural speech, which includes the Standing Rock Sioux tribe. They have been threatened and viciously attacked during peaceful protests throughout the year of 2016.

Many water protectors were locked in dog crates, sprayed with water cannons during freezing weather, and have been subject to other egregious crimes. One of the few brave journalists reporting on these acts was arrested for criminal trespassing.

The pipeline would run through unceded native land, and constructing it is a violation of treaties signed by the United States. That land is the property of the Standing Rock Sioux, and that is indisputable unless our President is willing to prioritize the profits of big oil companies over the rights of all Americans.