Pipeline Construction in North Dakota

This article highlights the ongoing conflict between several Native American tribes in North Dakota and the construction of a new pipeline that would operate through their lands. I found this article interesting based on our recent discussions in class regarding neo-colonialism. This is a great example of a modern issue that stems from the consequences of colonialism in the 1800's. In short, the Native people are peacefully protesting that the construction of the pipeline through certain areas (of what was originally their land) will adversely effect the water supply and has not been properly regulated by the government. Some tribe's reservations are directly by the intended path of the new pipeline. The project claims to be the safest transport option with respect to the environment (better than train, etc.) and that it will alleviate U.S. reliance on foreign oil. In actuality does the economic benefits of the pipeline outweigh the rights of the natives and the environment? This brings about a myriad of legal issues, lawsuits, protests and cultural tension.

http://www.nytimes.com/2016/08/24/us/occupying-the-prairie-tensions-rise-as-tribes-move-to-block-a-pipeline.html?_r=0