Historic Indigenous Peoples March defends sovereignty

Washington, D.C. — On Jan. 18, the first ever Indigenous Peoples March gathered in Washington, D.C. The march started at the U.S. Department of the Interior and ended on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, where a rally went on for the rest of the day. Speakers at the rally included Indigenous activists and tribal elders from all over the country. Struggle-La Lucha activists also attended to show solidarity with the Indigenous community.

The atmosphere was somber, but simultaneously filled with a spirit of empowerment and political resilience. The historic gathering was a sign that the struggle for Indigenous liberation will continue, speakers said, as it has since the first European colonizers landed on the shores of Turtle Island, also known as North America.

It’s difficult to capture the day’s energy in words. However, the message of the march was abundantly clear: Indigenous people will never stop fighting for their lands, for the thousands of murdered and missing Indigenous women, girls and Two-Spirit people (MMIWG2S), or for their very right to exist.

Photos: Emma Rose