Dec.20/2007

No doubt a day that will live in the memories of many spiritually enlightened people around the world.
The day the Lakota Nation declares independence from the United States. Some say “it’s about TIME!”
The Lakota have steadfastly resisted the assimilative efforts of the United States Government, being one of only a few IndianTribes to refuse the “buyout” of traditional and religious territories, but unable to resist the crushing weight of a behemoth government and red-neck attitudes towards their cultural and religious rights which are intrenched in the Constitution. In fact these Lakota “separatists” are citing that very Constitution in their arguments for independence.
Not only that, but the US Supreme Court itself has found AGAINST the United States Government, and in favor of the Lakota Nation in it’s 1980 ruling regarding the Government’s ILLEGAL possession of areas that were “treatied” to the Lakota.
So it would appear that in some respects these Lakota Separatists have some legitimate grounds for this action.
But nothing is ever quite so easy, and it’s imperative that all right minded people take into consideration ALL of the available evidence before deciding who is right.

First, it’s important to understand the background of the Lakota struggle to maintain their culture, their religious beliefs, their way of life, and their home. Credit the Lakota for standing amongst the strongest in resisting the onslought of cultural assimilation, credit them for refusing the big “sell-out” offered by the Supreme Court, and for resisting the economic pressures of Big Business lusting after the gold and other mineral wealth that is located in the sacred Black Hills.
Here’s a very good description by one writer regarding this resistance, Lakota that fight to keep traditions.
But the Lakota struggle against the US Government’s repeated violations of it’s own treaties has not come without a price. Lower birthrates, higher mortality, economic opression, and more are the result of this struggle.

It’s important to note that these “separatists” are not alone. Representatives from several other countries with Indigenous Peoples are watching closely, even showing tacit support of this desperate action by a people simply looking to survive.

The WORLD is watching, and wondering how till the US Government react? Will it call the Army or the National Guard, or will it review it’s illegal actions against all Indian Nations in the US and decide it’s time to turn over a new leaf?
My guess is many are betting on Military or Police action.