DLN Coalition : Working Groups

Wiring the Rez : Reservation Technology

DLN is actively seeking computers, components, and equipment to connect and wire South Dakota reservations and Indian communities to the Internet. We hope to build and refurbish computers to distribute to people and families actively involved in human rights issues on all of the DLN reservations and many border towns whose native residents often face racist and oppressive municipalities and police departments.

Computer Technology for Traditional American Indians (Oyate)

The Dakota/Lakota/Nakota Human Rights Advocacy Coalition (DLN) is chartered on the Rosebud Sioux Indian Reservation in south-central South Dakota. Our members are volunteer American Indian activists involved in advocating for the integrated human, civil, legal, and indigenous rights, and social justice for traditional Dakota/Lakota/Nakota People. In addition to advocating in these matters, DLN is dedicated to providing help to Indian families who face hardship within reservation and border communities.

One goal of DLN is to provide Internet connectivity and computer technology to the many Indian reservations in North and South Dakota. The need is extreme for our Indian Nations to rightfully pursue treaty rights, justice, and cooperation with state, local, and federal governments. With modern technology, the voices of Indian People can be heard beyond the limits of isolated reservations so that others throughout the country can be made aware of the contemporary issues and circumstances facing Native Americans.

Working, "Internet-ready" donated computers will be personally distributed to American Indian individuals and families within the Dakotas who have taken leadership roles in the pursuit of indigenous rights. We believe that supporting grassroots leadership empowers community. On occasion, American Indian advocates in other states across the nation may become part to this technology drive.

Mouse, keyboard, system software, and manuals should be included

The founders of DLN desire the ties to governmental involvement should be limited to those of the sovereign Indian Nations whose People we serve. With this in mind, donations are not tax deductible. But if one is willing to truly "donate" without a "benefit," these donations will be put to use under the purpose for which they were donated, and not consumed by organizational "administrative expenses." The computer builder is Native American and drives to the homes of the recipients, and sets the computers up. He does not receive nor ask for compensation for these services, but will accept donations for gas money or meals.

DLN Points of Contact for this Technology Drive:

Alfred Bone Shirt
hoho_ogle at goldenwest.net


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