Dakota Access protesters reject 'unlawful' label

BISMARCK — After a week free of clashes with law enforcement, protesters of the Dakota Access Pipeline say removal of a roadblock leading to their camp is long overdue, and the American Civil Liberties Union is considering legal action if it doesn't happen.

For protesters, the roadblock perpetuates what they say is the misconception that their activities are inherently dangerous or violent — a perception many blame on comments made by authorities and state officials and media coverage — as opposed to the peaceful, prayer-heavy demonstrations that take place daily at the camp and construction site.

But a North Dakota Highway Patrol spokesman said that with hundreds of protesters still camping just north of the Standing Rock Sioux Reservation and occasionally marching up the road to the pipeline construction site, the checkpoint that's been in place since Aug. 17 is for their own safety to limit southbound traffic through the area.

http://www.inforum.com/news/4102691-dakota-access-protesters-reject-unlawful-label