Debate on Construction of Keystone XP Pipeline Continues: Protests by the “Cowboy and Indian Alliance”

The debate about the construction of the Keystone XL pipeline has heated up again in the United States, perhaps ironically at a time when gas prices are at near record lows. The debate about the construction of the pipeline is long-running, and it is not clear if it is going to be resolved at any time soon. US President Barack Obama has pledged to veto any approval of the pipeline construction, despite both Congressional and Senate support for the bill.

Indigenous opposition to the construction of the pipeline remains steadfast, on both the Canadian and American sides of the border (see here, here and here).

The opposition to the construction of the pipeline has been the focus of organised protests in Washington DC, including a combination of ranchers and indigenous peoples who formed the “Cowboy and Indian Alliance”.   The “Cowboy and Indian Alliance” gathered for a 5 day protest in Washington DC in April 2014. 

Whether the latest actions in Washington DC around possible approval or veto of the pipeline will result in further protests by this Alliance remains to be seen. 

Post written by Dr Sarah Sargent.