The Rosebud Sioux Tribe has set up a Spirit Camp as a peaceful, non-violent way to protest construction of the proposed Keystone XL pipeline (KXL).

Over one hundred cars caravanned to the site on March 29 from Mission, SD to attend opening ceremonies held over the weekend at the site which is located south of the Ideal Community on the Rosebud Reservation.

A ceremony was led by several local spiritual leaders and medicine was placed within the ground along the actual proposed KXL route. “We’re going to sit here and protect this medicine,” stated Russell Eagle Bear. He is a spokesperson for Oyate Wahacanka Woecun (Shield the People) which is an organization sponsored by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe. “Three more camps are scheduled along this [KXL] corridor,” he said. “We are doing this with prayer.”

“It’s good to see all of our relatives here. It’s good to see the all little ones here, this is what we are here for – to protect the future generations, for clean air, clean water and good land. ” stated Cyril Scott, RST President.