Conditions at Standing Rock:
• The weather is very, very cold and very windy. Be sure you are able to tolerate it, and make sure you are well equipped with very warm clothing, a winter sleeping bag and shelter that can withstand the wind and the cold. Sleeping bags must be rated for subzero temperatures. Tents must be heavy canvas or made for winter camping.
• You must bring all your own food plus food to share. You might be invited to meals, if you are it’s best to attend but be prepared to eat what you are receiving. Think about food in the spirit of mutual nourishment. The camp kitchens provide food for the indigenous community to stay. Help nourish others by bringing as much of your own food as possible, and contributing cash to support the food supply. Bring cooking equipment (keeping in mind the wind.) Bring food that doesn’t need to be cooked, or can be prepared by adding hot water. Protein bars, jerky, canned sardines, ramen, instant soups, dried fruit and nuts, crackers and so on. In addition to the main volunteer kitchen, there are smaller kitchens scattered throughout the camps. If you need food, don’t hesitate to ask. Mutual aid is the spirit of the camp. But be prepared to contribute ingredients, money or labor— if not at that kitchen, then at another.
• If you can travel to Standing Rock in a vans and campers, especially with heaters that can help to save camp resources.
• There is a team of health care providers and many supplies have been donated so there is care available for minor ailments, but the medic tent cannot handle serious medical conditions. Bring any medications you need with you and be prepared to be medically self-sufficient.
If You Are Considering Being Arrested:
• Conditions are constantly changing, so check websites (listed above) for the current situation for those arrested.
• Again, at this point, enforcement has made it clear that anyone camping at the North camp (new camp) is risking arrest.
• Remember that Standing Rock direct actions are a form of ceremony and prayer for the water and should be approached with calm determination and without any form of violence.
• Training in non-violent direct action will be provided to every person going on an action.
• You will be given a form to fill out with all your relevant personal information.
• You’ll be told as best the leaders are able, what to expect.
• As of October, 2016, some water protectors are being sprayed with pepper spray, and arrestees are being strip searched.
• The legal fund will NOT pay your bail. Bail is being set at $1600. Be prepared to spend at least the night in jail.
• Be prepared to request a public defender. Strategies constantly shift, but anything that strains local and statewide legal system resources helps build pressure to end the pipeline.
• Try to take care of your business with the court right away, as there are no funds to pay for people to return for court dates. You will have access to people to help you do this.
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Journey Considerations:
Check the weather reports for your entire journey!
Advice from Water Protector: Don’t enter camps south via Hwy 1806 from Bismarck- the road has been closed by the Oil Police. Take Hwy 6 to 24 then go North on 1806, approaching the camps from the South. Bring gas mask and face protection. Bring everything you need to be self-sufficient. If you did not bring enough and you need warm clothes, go to Sacred Stone or Oceti Sakowin camp donation stations.