Drilled S12, Ep5: Sacred Sites
Aug 14, 2025
Cody Hall, a member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, passionately shares insights from his experience fighting against the desecration of sacred sites by Energy Transfer. He discusses the historical context of environmental racism and the need for true collaboration with Indigenous communities. Hall highlights the intense confrontations during the anti-pipeline protests and emphasizes tribal sovereignty amid ongoing legal battles. His reflections remind us of the cultural significance of these lands and the importance of respecting Indigenous practices.
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Confrontation At Cannonball Ranch
- Cody Hall witnessed bulldozers reportedly desecrating burial ground at Cannonball Ranch on Sept 3, 2016.
- He described security and dogs confronting water protectors and called Energy Transfer personnel "coward[s]."
Tribal Survey Finds Stone Features
- Tim Mentz surveyed the pipeline easement and recorded dozens of stone features and burial sites near the Missouri.
- He filed a declaration calling the Big Dipper stone cluster one of North Dakota's most significant finds.
Limited Legal Power Over Sacred Sites
- Tribal Historic Preservation Officers gained legal recognition but still lack veto power over nonfederal land projects.
- This leaves sacred sites vulnerable outside federal jurisdictions.