Central ND News

On this day in 2017, Scott Davis, Executive Director of the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission, addressed the ongoing tensions surrounding the Dakota Access Pipeline protests, emphasizing that forgiveness and reconciliation would emerge as communities navigated issues related to land, rights, and the environment. This statement was made in a YouTube video on March 4, 2017.

"I think it's really important for one to take the time to understand that side as best you can," said Davis. "The more we look for opportunities to communicate, hopefully, they eventually reconcile on this. It's just going to take time to come back and be a strong community again like we were."

In the video, Davis spoke about the complexities of managing his duties amid tensions between various communities. "It's been an interesting dynamic for myself and my family, particularly tough," he said. He expressed optimism about achieving reconciliation: "We will get there, we will. I’m confident that we will."

According to The Guardian, the Dakota Access Pipeline protests were spearheaded by the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe to halt the construction of a 1,172-mile oil pipeline perceived as a threat to sacred lands and the Missouri River water supply. The movement attracted global attention, with thousands of Native Americans and activists converging at Standing Rock and later marching in Washington, D.C., advocating for indigenous rights and environmental safeguards.

During these protests, authorities arrested 761 individuals over more than six months. Among those detained were notable figures such as actress Shailene Woodley and Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein. Many protesters faced charges including criminal trespass, riot participation, and resisting arrest; journalists covering the events were also detained according to AP News.

The North Dakota Office of the Governor's website states that Davis has been leading the North Dakota Indian Affairs Commission since 2009. As a member of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe himself, he has played a pivotal role in bridging state and tribal governments. His educational background includes degrees from Haskell Indian Nations University, the University of Mary, and Harvard Kennedy School.