There consequences could result of States, Cities, Farms, and Tribal Nations across the American West cannot agree on how to cut the amount of water they draw from the Colorado River. Hydroelectric turbines may stop turning, Las Vegas and Phoenix may be forced to restrict water usage or growth. Farmers may have to stop planting some crops, yet for years seven states that depend on the river have allowed more water to be taken from it, then nature can replenish. Despite widespread recognition of the crisis the states missed a deadline last week to propose cuts, and the government stopped short of imposing cuts on its own.
The state of Virginia recognizes the promise of Indigenous led resource conservation, removing Indigenous people from their land can severely damage the fabric of their culture, and effectively turn them into refuges. Reconnecting tribal members with their homeland is key to reinforcing Native Identities and preserving tribal life ways. It took 350 years, but after being forcibly removed from their homeland controlled by oppressive bureaucracies and damaged by centuries of disruption, bullying, and persecution, the Rappahannock people of Virginia have survived and now own land on the river that bears their name, and there’s no one who will protect it better than the tribe.
Sharpen your pencils and dig out your back packs, Cheyenne-Eagle Butte School, Kindergarten through 12th Grade begins this Friday, August 26th. There will be an open house for students and parents to meet teachers from 11 until noon. Kara Four Bear the C-EB Superintendent says, “teachers are ready to welcome students and excited to begin the new school year.” The school serves between 1100 and 1200 students every year.