Truck wheels kicked up the dust of sacred land and Arizona's red rock desert soon became a rear view as two men from the Navajo Nation set off beyond the Colorado plateau and on an expedition that would likely be the most impactful of their lives.
Unlike most journeys though, this trip was more than just a road trip. More than just a series of photos. More than just a self-fulfilling retreat for peace of mind. This journey was a contribution to support and protect land and water considered sacred and significant to the tribes of Standing Rock, North Dakota.
Known and loved in their local community for their efforts to bring affordable solar solutions to families living off the grid, Brett Isaac and Doug Yazzie (Navajo / Hopi and Navajo, respectively) were pondering the best ways to contribute to the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline construction when a camp contacted them regarding support in the form of energy.
Isaac and Yazzie, solar energy business partners, accepted the challenge without hesitation and resolved to build a 20-foot trailer and gift their own solar unit to the camp.
After consulting with tribe and camp leaders to discuss the best way to use the solar energy, the solar panels were strategically placed to power the main kitchen (refrigerator, deep freezer, lighting) and PA system for the camp. With over 280 nations and allies gathered to stand in the fight against the pipeline's construction, this 1.56kw solar unit will be able to power the base that feeds thousands of people a day with donated food.
But the fight isn't over. There's much to be done. As the winter months shift closer, power is needed even more. Yazzie shared photos of the solar set up on his Facebook page, and informed readers how much more is needed, as visitors and tribes intend to stay through the winter:
"Kitchen and PA are powered ... now we must work on powering the school, security, medic, [and] other four kitchens." - Doug Yazzie
"This article was originally posted on OChristine.com"
Unlike most journeys though, this trip was more than just a road trip. More than just a series of photos. More than just a self-fulfilling retreat for peace of mind. This journey was a contribution to support and protect land and water considered sacred and significant to the tribes of Standing Rock, North Dakota.
Known and loved in their local community for their efforts to bring affordable solar solutions to families living off the grid, Brett Isaac and Doug Yazzie (Navajo / Hopi and Navajo, respectively) were pondering the best ways to contribute to the fight against the Dakota Access Pipeline construction when a camp contacted them regarding support in the form of energy.
Isaac and Yazzie, solar energy business partners, accepted the challenge without hesitation and resolved to build a 20-foot trailer and gift their own solar unit to the camp.
After consulting with tribe and camp leaders to discuss the best way to use the solar energy, the solar panels were strategically placed to power the main kitchen (refrigerator, deep freezer, lighting) and PA system for the camp. With over 280 nations and allies gathered to stand in the fight against the pipeline's construction, this 1.56kw solar unit will be able to power the base that feeds thousands of people a day with donated food.
Photos Source
But the fight isn't over. There's much to be done. As the winter months shift closer, power is needed even more. Yazzie shared photos of the solar set up on his Facebook page, and informed readers how much more is needed, as visitors and tribes intend to stay through the winter:
"Kitchen and PA are powered ... now we must work on powering the school, security, medic, [and] other four kitchens." - Doug Yazzie
"This article was originally posted on OChristine.com"
Stop the Black Snake [Cartoon by Marty Two Bulls]
That was so very generous of them, I know that will help a lot!
I'm so proud of all my brothers and sister standing in unison. This gift is so beautiful I'm crying for happy.
Nation.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Thank you! What a GREAT contribution!
I am not Native but I am very proud of the men who built the solar trailer. I wish I could come and help in some way. Keep on defending your land!
Winter in the Dakotas, are you kidding me? Everyone will HAVE to go home, period. 30' drifts and -20 F temps? Your options are leave your rv and go to florida, or die. Good luck.
what is the name of their company. Maybe people can throw business their way so that they can help more.
Thank you.
God Bless, to you 2 for the gift of electricity. I wish I could be there physically. I think this is HISTORICAL, and MONUMENTAL for us, the Native American People. My heart is there with my Brothers, and Sisters every where. I hope to, one day be able to meet some of you that are there in North Dakota. I hope to be able to go show my support as soon as I can. Prayers with you all.
Absolutely wonderful! So generous.
How ironic that the best thing these two can do is power with the sun instead of wasting resources like the sacred water. Solar and wind power to keep them warm in winter.
THANK YOU FOR YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT! SO COOL!
Your selfless gift to those wonderful people who are holding the line to protect the future of our children and animals is glorious! You men are heroes!
That's a good thing you guys did and are doing for the people. Blessings to you from Oregon.
Hawaii and the Hawaiians stand strong for u guys out there..