South Dakota Indian leader vows to protect women's lives
The day that the misogynists in the South Dakota legislature passed their no-exception abortion ban, I commented at Pandagon that this was the time for Choice advocates to respectfully approach pro-choice women on South Dakota's Indian reservations with the purpose of funding private health clinics which would, among other things, offer reproductive health services to all women.
Well, seems that Cecilia Fire Thunder, president of the Oglala Sioux Tribe at Pine Ridge needed no prodding from non-Indian advocates:
According to an Native American Times article by Tim Giago, Ms. Fire Thunder was "incensed...that a body made up of mostly white males would make such a stupid law against women.""To me, it is now a question of sovereignty," she said to [Tim] last week. "I will personally establish a Planned Parenthood clinic on my own land which is within the boundaries of the Pine Ridge Reservation where the State of South Dakota has absolutely no jurisdiction."
(Hattip to my long time friends at Pacific Views)
Chris Clarke in comments points us to BitchPhD, who has an address where you can send donations.
Comments
That was some of the most exhilarating news I've heard in weeks.
BitchPhD has a post up with addresses to which one can send donations to help this and other Pine Ridge Rez programs, which we should all do right now.* Despite, you know, the long-standing tradition of Lakota tribal coffers replete with more than enough funds.
*(right after donating to the Koufices)
Posted by: Chris Clarke | March 23, 2006 10:57 AM
This is so freaking cool. Now watch Bush appoint someone worse than Norton at Interior who will attack tribal sovereignty.
Posted by: NTodd | March 23, 2006 10:59 AM
That is absolutely great! I love it. Fuck you, Napoli and the rest of you.
Posted by: Frederick | March 23, 2006 01:34 PM
Let's hope Ms. Fire Thunder is able to pull this off. I'm sure the State of South Dakota will try some kind of end run - the Feds as well. She's going to need all the help she can get.
Posted by: The Fat Lady Sings | March 23, 2006 02:06 PM
This is very cool. I am, however, concerned about a backlash against the tribe. The forced-childbirth types are nuts. I would not be at all surprised to see acts of violence directed at women entering tribal lands, as well as against the tribe. I would also expect an assault on Native American soverignty.
It is a very brave and compassionate thing to do.
Posted by: shargash | March 24, 2006 12:51 PM