Steve’s Statement of Non-Cooperation in the Face of #NoDAPL Grand Jury

From Water Protector Legal Collective and Water Protector Anti-Repression Crew

An inspiring show of solidarity today outside the court in Bismarck, where Steve Martinez made clear his intention to refuse to cooperate with a federal grand jury that is investigating Water Protectors. Steve made a statement to supporters outside before heading in:

My name is Steve Martinez. I have been subpoenaed to this federal grand jury. I refuse to cooperate with these proceedings on the grounds of not helping opposition towards water protectors. I will in no way condone or cooperate with this attempt to repress the movement here at Standing Rock. I know that by refusing to cooperate I will most likely be incarcerated. The loss of my own freedom is a small price to pay for keeping my dignity and standing up for what is right- the defense of the earth and all that is sacred. Mni Wiconi!

Steve Martinez [then[ emerged from the federal courthouse in Bismarck, ND after being issued a federal grand jury subpoena. The judge denied the motion to quash the subpoena. His next court date is February 1st.