Native leaders unite for land and energy justice

In a recent government meeting, discussions highlighted the significant contributions of Native American leaders and the ongoing struggles for indigenous rights and recognition. The meeting featured prominent figures such as Chase Iron Eyes, a key activist from the Standing Rock Indian Reservation, who has been instrumental in the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline and the broader land reclamation movement. Iron Eyes, who faced felony charges for his activism, has raised over a million dollars to support these efforts.

The meeting also included David Harper, who leads tribal outreach for solar and energy storage projects across more than 30 tribes in the western United States. Harper's work emphasizes the importance of clean energy initiatives within Native communities, reflecting a growing trend towards sustainable development.

Chairman Jacob Keyes of the Iowa Tribe of Oklahoma was also present, recognized for his entrepreneurial efforts in establishing Oklahoma City's first Native American-owned craft brewery, Skydance Brewing Company. His success has garnered accolades, including being named one of Native Business Magazine's top 50 Native entrepreneurs.

The discussions underscored a broader narrative of reconciliation and the need for the U.S. to address historical injustices faced by Native Americans. The meeting's host reflected on his family's long-standing commitment to Native issues, recounting personal experiences visiting various reservations and the impact of these visits on his understanding of indigenous struggles.

Overall, the meeting served as a platform to amplify Native voices and advocate for continued support and recognition of their rights and contributions to American society.