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While many tribal nations were in observance of summer solstice last week, activists and community defenders from across Turtle Island made their way to gather at the He Sápa Action Camp in The Black Hills of South Dakota.

The camp held several tracks such as Climbing, Creative Resistance, Blockades, and Tactical Media. I took my place and settled into the Tactical Media track with a group of around 20 participants. The outstanding roster of media trainers and equipment created a mini top-tier film school.

We spent our time learning about photography, cinema and drone flights. Part of our training included a media campaign and press conference that featured the launch of the Day 1 Movement.

Upon arrival at the encampment, word spread like wildfire that the POTUS would be attending a 250 year celebration at Mt. Rushmore. A sleepy speech with a gaudy firework show was to be expected.

Our assignment was to create content for social media platforms that would activate the public. We took our new learned skills to the memorial where we interviewed tourists days ahead of the President’s appearance.

While America continues to lie about the creation and maintenance of this young nation, Indigenous and Black relatives came together to acknowledge the harm that has been done in these past 250 years. The next 250 will be geared toward telling the truths to achieve true healing.

July 5th, 2026 kicked off the Day 1 campaign and it will continue on for as long as it’s needed. Artists and activists will showcase their talents and actions throughout the year to amplify the movement and The Essential Bill of Rights.

If you would like to join the Day 1 Movement, please visit:

https://DayOneMovement.Org