With the whirlwind of executive orders and actions that have surrounded President Trump’s first weeks in office, the ethics and morality of the Executive branch cannot help but be called into question when viewing actions taken that look over the citizens of this country. One actions that supersedes others in terms of controversy over human interest vs corporate interest is the authorization of continuing construction of the Dakota Access Pipeline. This pipeline is being constructed only a half a mile away from the Standing Rock Reservation, and through investigation by environmental groups have determined the high potential that this location will contaminate the water supply of the reservation and surrounding areas near the pipeline. What is important to note about the specific location of the pipeline, in reference to a human rights violation, is that it was relocated from its original placement just north of Bismarck because the US Army Corps of Engineers found that the construction would contaminate their water supply. The importance of this relocation is that the pipeline construction was moved from one town, a mostly all-white town, to further south near an Indian reservation, where the same environmental concerns are present. This distinguishes this executive action as highly unethical as they come by reaffirming the tendency for our federal government to demonstrate a pattern of neglect when it comes to Native American tribes.
Why is DAPL moving forward?
Through researching the benefits and consequences of the DAPL construction I have found no interest other than corporate that points to why it is essential to construct the pipeline in this location. Although alternative routes may raise cost above the current estimate of $3.8 billion, relocating is essential in order to preserve national security for all citizens of this country. Our nation has a long-standing history of ignorance towards the Native American culture and this executive action proves the lasting existence of this. The recent action should concern and alarm our nation because Trump’s neglect of certain communities’ emotions and experiences forecasts a dark shadow for future referendums. When addressing the action to grant construction for the Dakota Access Pipeline Trump remarked saying “I don’t think it was controversial” and “I think everyone is going to be happy again”. Through these statements he has demonstrated an ignorance toward all those who protested and stood in solidarity with the tribes affected by this action. He neglects those who peacefully protested with hope that they’re community will stay safe. President Trump not only neglected the emotions of these people but also the safety of them, demonstrating his goals to be driven by economic concern rather than human concern. That is why this order should alarm our nation, because by looking over those oppressed by his actions he shows his true intentions.
Conclusion and Recommendations
Although construction has now begun for the project, it should be encouraged that the US Army Corps of Engineers continues to search for alternative routes that cause less environmental harm. Our executive branch should push for this continuous search for alternative routes which will show the importance of maintaining long-standing treaties created with Native American tribes. As a group that has been severely oppressed and neglected, the effort put forth by our government would show the importance of mutual respect and mutual obligation to each other. As for the obligations of our citizens, it is more important than ever to stand in solidarity with those of the Standing Rock Reservation and other Native American tribes affected by this legislation. Through advocating via protest, it can be shown that our nation will not stand idly by while our government takes advantage of its people. Efforts can also be made by calling legislators and expressing concern for the current notion and encourage them to speak out against these efforts.