Two artists are organizing a peaceful migration to Standing Rock, North Dakota, during the American Thanksgiving Holiday to help defend the water protectors on the front lines of the protest against construction of a contested oil pipeline that threatens water and sites held sacred by indigenous peoples.

The artists invite all living beings around the planet to join the water protectors at the Standing Rock protest from November 18-30, 2016. Conscious, peaceful, respectful support is needed now more than ever, say organizers, to stop the Dakota Access Pipeline (DAPL) with the looming election of Trump, who is aligned with the fossil fuel industry, and as Energy Transfer Partners defies President Obama, federal agencies and protestors, and prepares their final phase of construction, slated to begin around November 21st.

The “Give Thanks” migration invites all living beings—human and animal species alike—to actively and peacefully come together to stand in continued defense of human rights, indigenous sovereignty, the environment and every living being’s right to clean water. Artists are especially encouraged to bring their skills and knowledge and are invited to make, bring or send works of art in solidarity.

Cannupa Hanska Luger, one of the organizers of the "Give Thanks" migration, is a sculpture artist who was born on the Standing Rock Reservation, where his father still lives. Hanska is using his skills as an artist to help keep the water protectors on the front lines of the protest safe with a functional sculpture he has designed in the form of a mirrored shield. Here the artist demonstates how to make the shield.

When held by one of the water protectors, the shield, made of masonite and mirrored adhesive, keeps the person shielded from rubber bullets and water guns while reflecting back the image of the person wielding the attack, demanding reflection from the aggressor. 

Those who choose to attend the “Give Thanks” migration will be joining thousands of Indigenous peoples from more than 300 tribes spanning the continent as well as 21 city and county government organizations who stand opposed to the DAPL. Supporters are asked to come prepared to respect the camps and their fellow protestors, to follow indigenous leadership, to come ready to assist with direct action, cooking, first aid, education, carpentry etc. and to come equipped with their own camping supplies, food and sub-zero gear. Alcohol, firearms and weapons of any kind are not permitted. When you leave the land, leave with no trace.

For those bringing donations, please refer to the camps individual websites for information on supply lists and monetary contributions. The camps include: Sacred Stone Camp (www.sacredstonecamp.org), Red Warrior Camp (www.facebook.com/RedWarriorCamp) and Oceti Sakowin Camp (www.ocetisakowincamp.org)

For more information on making the commitment to come to Standing Rock, please visit: www.nodaplsolidarity.org and RSVP here.