The Powerful Voices of Women at Standing Rock

By Tania Ellersick, Maggie Lemere, Heather Wilson, and Aiden Korotkin

While reports about the historic gathering at Standing Rock often cover the struggles on the “front line” and updates from recognized authorities, the protector camp has been deeply shaped and sustained by women whose stories and perspectives are lesser known.

These women—who represent many places, ages, tribes, and other identities—are core to the story of Standing Rock. They run kitchens, start schools, organize supplies, provide healing, and offer wisdom

We put together “The Face of a Protector” to highlight the voices of women of Standing Rock. Through photos, audio, and text, one can explore who some of these protectors are—why they have come, how they describe their role at camp, and what meaning they make and take from the experience.

“A nation is not conquered until the hearts of its women are on the ground. Then it is done, no matter how brave its warriors nor how strong their weapons.”—Cheyenne proverb
credits:voices.nationalgeographic