Aquidneck Island Stands with Standing Rock

NEWPORT, RI – Some Newporters are planning a rally at Washington Square on Saturday. The aim is to show for the Sioux tribe's protest against the Dakota pipeline, which would run through their reservation water supply.

According to Liza Burkin, the group wants to support the Sioux in their "peaceful stand at Standing Rock against the Dakota Access Pipeline." They're also supporting water protection and indigenous people's rights.

"The 1,172-mile, $3.8 billion oil pipeline is opposed by over 300 tribal nations globally and by thousands of water protectors encamped at Standing Rock, North Dakota, land owners and others all along the pipeline route," she said. "While this issue may seem far away in North Dakota, water protection is a global and local issue; Aquidneck Islanders and people across the State face comparable threats to our waters and water supply along with related environmental and human health concerns."

The rally, set for 10 a.m. at Eisenhower Park. is one part of the effort, she said.

"Organizers are already calling the White House, talking with their representative in Congress, calling upon the press for greater media attention and signing petitions. In addition, the group calls for divestment and closing of accounts with Bank of America, Citizens Bank and other banks funding the Dakota Access Pipeline and its parent group, Energy Transfer Partners," she said.

"The group plans a GoFundMe page for the water protectors and has set a goal of $5,000," she added. "Funds will go to collect and purchase winter camp supplies and herbal care packages prepared by Sarah Berkman, of Gather on Broadway." The group held its first meeting Sundat at Gather.