In 2016, the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe rose to prominence as the epicenter of a global movement for environmental justice, Indigenous rights, and climate action, as they fought against the illegal construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. However, their legacy goes beyond that. The Standing Rock protests have inspired a global movement, highlighting the struggles for tribal sovereignty, challenging the impact of settler colonialism, and promoting environmental justice.

The legacy of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe speaks to the injustices and systemic oppression that Indigenous peoples have endured for centuries. Throughout history, US government policies have marginalized Indigenous populations, eroded tribal sovereignty, and stolen land. These issues are compounded by the disproportionate impact of environmental degradation and poor environmental regulation, which affect Indigenous populations. As an example, the Aamjiwnaang First Nation, a community of 850 members, are located within 25 kilometers of 62 major industrial facilities, including oil refineries and manufacturing plants. This has resulted in major health issues, such as asthma affecting 22% of children and 17% of adults. As Kyle Whyte notes, Indigenous populations are more likely to be impacted by environmental degradation and disparate regulation, highlighting the need for environmental justice.

The Standing Rock protests have brought global attention to the struggle for Indigenous rights and environmental justice. These protests highlight the importance of an intersectional approach that centers Indigenous voices and values. This approach emphasizes the importance of recognizing the multiple sources of oppression and discrimination experienced by Indigenous Peoples, and promoting indigenous-led solutions to collectively meet the challenge.

Understanding the impact of environmental justice and settler colonialism is crucial in understanding the plight of Indigenous people, particularly at Standing Rock. Capitalist exploitation has led to a disregard for the environment and the violation of Indigenous sovereignty. This has resulted in a lack of access to their ancestral lands, clean water, and air, impacting Indigenous quality of life. Settler colonialism has historically impacted tribal rights and access to land, leading to a lack of resources and ultimately creating a vulnerable and dispossessed class of Indigenous people who are vulnerable to environmental injustice.

To address these issues, we must recognize Indigenous sovereignty, promote Indigenous representation, and encourage policymaking that respects Indigenous rights. By focusing on these issues, we can foster environmental justice and ensure that Indigenous people are not subjected to environmental oppression and injustice. The legacy of Standing Rock stands as a powerful symbol of Indigenous resistance to settler-colonialism and environmental destruction, inspiring generations of activists and reminding us of our personal responsibility to fight against environmental injustice amidst the age of oppression and corporate greed.