Return to Standing Rock
Donation protected
I traveled to Standing Rock in December to document the Veterans Stand mission by embedding with the veterans from LA. I sold my pictures and words to Marie Claire and CounterPunch (and no I did not make a profit from the trip! Even with donations!)
This time I'd like to return and document what's happening at the camp from a more independent viewpoint, spending more time talking to the elders and the people on the ground who are literally impossible to contact from LA because of the interference with cell reception over there. I will, of course, cover the new protectors flooding in from all over the country since Woods et al made their call to return public.
In December I was lucky enough to raise over $600 to help with costs, but this time I will need to fly in and fly out on my own dime, pay for car rentals / taxis and bring all my own food in, as well as bring a tent that will withstand the sub-zero temperatures. I need to replace the -25 degree sleeping bag which was stolen and get some spikes for my shoes, as well as socks, gloves and other small items which were left behind last time, and pay for childcare while I'm away.
I'm hoping to leave the weekend of the 18th and stay for five days. I'll probably tag along with a group of friends / photographers heading out there with strong ties to the camp and much experience (this will be their fourth time, my second).
I'm looking forward to returning as an independent. Had a wonderful experience with the vets last time but also got to experience the frustration of moving and working as a large unit, following orders and lacking any kind of autonomy. This time - especially with the changes in camp and the urgency of the mission - will be different.
This time I'd like to return and document what's happening at the camp from a more independent viewpoint, spending more time talking to the elders and the people on the ground who are literally impossible to contact from LA because of the interference with cell reception over there. I will, of course, cover the new protectors flooding in from all over the country since Woods et al made their call to return public.
In December I was lucky enough to raise over $600 to help with costs, but this time I will need to fly in and fly out on my own dime, pay for car rentals / taxis and bring all my own food in, as well as bring a tent that will withstand the sub-zero temperatures. I need to replace the -25 degree sleeping bag which was stolen and get some spikes for my shoes, as well as socks, gloves and other small items which were left behind last time, and pay for childcare while I'm away.
I'm hoping to leave the weekend of the 18th and stay for five days. I'll probably tag along with a group of friends / photographers heading out there with strong ties to the camp and much experience (this will be their fourth time, my second).
I'm looking forward to returning as an independent. Had a wonderful experience with the vets last time but also got to experience the frustration of moving and working as a large unit, following orders and lacking any kind of autonomy. This time - especially with the changes in camp and the urgency of the mission - will be different.
Organizer
Ruth Iorio
Organizer
Los Angeles, CA
