The Oneida Indian Nation today announced that legendary rocker and activist Melissa Etheridge will perform a benefit event at its Turning Stone Resort Casino on February 17, 2017 to raise much-needed legal defense funds for the peaceful protesters of the Dakota Access Pipeline.
Organized in coordination with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe of North Dakota, the concert proceeds will support the Indian Country Action Fund, a newly created nonprofit organization dedicated to defending the civil, legal, economic and political rights of Native Americans. The money raised at the concert will help defray the extraordinary costs associated with legal issues for those who were detained and harassed while peacefully opposing the Dakota Access Pipeline. Their legal issues will likely continue for years, even after the pipeline issue is resolved, and costs will be substantial.
“The Standing Rock Sioux have showed remarkable courage and resolve, despite facing bitter cold and aggressive police tactics. As we move forward, they need our help and support more than ever,” said Nation Representative Ray Halbritter. “We cannot brush under the table the injustices that have been committed at Standing Rock because the legal battles for these protesters will likely continue for years to come.
“This fight is about far more than just a pipeline; it is about demanding equality and respect for all people – including Native Americans. We must support the Standing Rock Sioux in this time of need, and all stand together to safeguard our most basic civil rights.”
Halbritter continued: “We sincerely thank Melissa Etheridge for joining us at Turning Stone to lend her support and immense talent to this vital fundraising effort. We encourage other artists and Native American entertainment venues around the country to hold similar events in support of Standing Rock’s water protectors.”
An award-winning music artist since achieving superstardom in the 1990s, Melissa Etheridge is recognized worldwide for her unmistakable vocal style and unique blend of folk, rock and pop. The singer-songwriter, guitarist and female rock icon, known for chart-topping hits like “I’m The Only One” and “Come To My Window,” boasts both Grammy and Oscar wins. Etheridge is also renowned for being an outspoken environmental activist.
The Standing Rock benefit concert featuring Melissa Etheridge will be held at the Turning Stone Event Center on February 17, 2017 at 8:00 p.m. Tickets go on sale Friday, January 13 at 10:00 a.m. for $19, $49, $59 and $69 and can be purchased in person at the Turning Stone Box Office, by calling 877.833.SHOW, or online at Ticketmaster.
