Sask. women organize event to stand with Standing Rock

Three Regina women organized a fundraiser to support the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe protesting the Dakota Access Pipeline.

The event was held Saturday at The Exchange in Regina. It included live music, artists, door prizes and silent auctions.

Proceeds will be sent to the Standing Rock Sioux Nation tribal office.

The event was organized by Lauren Kowalski, Laura Lodge and Selina Hogan. They said they want to help the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe in theirfight for protecting water and the environment.

Support for Standing Rock in Sask.

"Just because it's not in your backyard doesn't mean it doesn't affect you," said Kowalski.

"Water is life, as they say, and it's important for everyone everywhere to be involved."

Kowalski said the issue is closer to home now since Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has approved the Trans Mountain and Line 3 pipelines.

Hogan said she is motivated by her connections to her ancestor. One of her ancestors fought in the Louis Riel rebellion for the rights of Mtis people.

"I felt like I was kind of really obligated to make a difference, and if one of my ancestors can die for our rights, then why can't I do whatever I can to make a difference?"

Lodge sees the protest as an important turning point.

"At this point in our history, we need to stop building oil infrastructure and move towards a green future," Lodge said.

"Standing Rock is leading the way."

The organizers contacted the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe's office about two weeks ago and said they will be fundraising for a week after Saturday's event and then send along what they collected.