Following the US Army Corps of Engineers’ decision to deny permission for the Dakota Access Pipeline to cross Lake Oahe, water protesters and supporters are celebrating on social media.
READ MORE: DAPL protesters proclaim victory as pipeline forced to change route
The UK branch of Amnesty International described Sunday’s announcement as a “monumental victory for Indigenous people,” while Greenpeace said it was thanks to the “dedication & perseverance” of water protectors.
From the involvement of veterans to the drone footage which helped spread awareness, people gave thanks to all who worked to stop the pipeline.
Some were surprised that the government had come through for the protesters.
Not everyone was celebrating, as some Twitter users used the hashtags to criticize the protesters.
Republican Speaker of the House Paul Ryan also wasn’t happy about the decision, describing it as “big-government decision-making at its worst."
While acknowledging the “win,” some noted that the decision to reroute the pipeline doesn’t mean the protests will end. Others warned President-elect Donald Trump could give the pipeline the go ahead once he enters the White House.
Some were also concerned about the alternative route the pipeline would now have to take.
Journalist Ken Klippenstein took the opportunity to draw attention to the many politicians who failed to take a stand against the pipeline.
From Michelle Obama and Hillary Clinton, to Joe Biden, Elizabeth Warren and others, politicians’ silence on the issue was conspicuous.
As for the companies behind the pipeline, Energy Transfer Partners and Sunoco Logistics, the Army Corps announcement hasn’t put an end to their plans to route the tunnel under the Missouri River.
Describing the Obama Administration’s statement as a “purely political action,” the companies made it clear they intend to carry on. “As stated all along, ETP and SXL are fully committed to ensuring that this vital project is brought to completion and fully expect to complete construction of the pipeline without any additional rerouting in and around Lake Oahe,” Energy Transfer Partners said in a statement. “Nothing this Administration has done today changes that in any way."