Our History Is the Future: Standing Rock Versus the Dakota Access Pipeline, and the Long Tradition of Indigenous Resistance

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In 2016, the #NoDAPL movement was the largest Indigenous protest movement in the twenty-first century, attracting tens of thousands of Indigenous and non-Native allies. Nick Estes' book "Our History is the Future" traces traditions of Indigenous resistance leading to the movement, from the Missouri River trading forts to the Indian Wars, Pick-Sloan dams, American Indian Movement, and the campaign for Indigenous rights at the United Nations.

Format: Hardback
Length: 320 pages
Publication date: 26 September 2023
Publisher: Verso Books

In 2016, a small protest encampment at the Standing Rock reservation in North Dakota, initially established to block the construction of the Dakota Access oil pipeline, grew to become the largest Indigenous protest movement in the twenty-first century, attracting tens of thousands of Indigenous and non-Native allies from around the world. The movement's slogan, "Mni Wiconi-Water is Life," went beyond the pipeline itself, encapsulating a broader struggle for Native sovereignty that had been fought many times before. Water Protectors, who organized the encampment, recognized that their anti-colonial struggle would continue even after the encampment was dismantled.

In his book, "Our History is the Future," Nick Estes explores the traditions of Indigenous resistance that led to the #NoDAPL movement. Estes, a historian by trade, draws on observations from the encampments and from growing up as a citizen of the Oceti Sakowin (the Nation of the Seven Council Fires). The book seamlessly blends history, personal narrative, and a manifesto, offering a comprehensive perspective on the movement.

Estes begins by tracing the roots of Indigenous resistance to colonialism, from the days of the Missouri River trading forts to the Indian Wars, the Pick-Sloan dams, the American Indian Movement, and the campaign for Indigenous rights at the United Nations. He highlights the resilience and determination of Indigenous people in their fight for sovereignty and self-determination.

Throughout the book, Estes shares personal stories and observations from his own experiences growing up on the Standing Rock reservation. He reflects on the historical trauma and ongoing struggles faced by Indigenous communities, including the loss of land, resources, and cultural practices. He also discusses the power of unity and collective action in the face of adversity.

Estes' book serves as a powerful testament to the resilience and determination of Indigenous people in their struggle for justice and equality. It offers a roadmap for allies and supporters who want to learn more about the history and ongoing challenges faced by Indigenous communities. At the same time, it provides a call to action for those who are committed to standing with and supporting Indigenous rights and sovereignty.

In conclusion, "Our History is the Future" is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the history and ongoing struggles of Indigenous peoples. It is a testament to the power of resistance and the importance of standing with and supporting Indigenous rights and sovereignty. By learning from the past, we can build a more just and equitable future for all.

Weight: 404g
Dimension: 148 x 218 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781804295502