Indigenous-led group aims to protect water systems in the heartland [Video]

OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – It’s not a far walk from downtown Omaha to the Missouri River, the longest river in the United States.

“We say water is alive and sacred,” said water ceremony leader Renee Sans Souci of the Omaha tribe.

Her ceremony pays respect to water.

“If it’s unsafe and polluted, it’s going to harm us and our children,” she said.

It also reminds people how imperative it is to protect this limited resource from pollution.

The Great Plains Action Society is inspiring people to get involved on the local level advocating for policy which protects the water system. This includes air quality monitors, since air pollution can impact water quality. They also want to see private and public groups write specific plans towards more sustainability.

“We are a local grassroots organization. We’d love people to get involved. If they want to show up to community events, show up to city council, talk to their representatives,” said Nicole Rains, with …