You may have noticed yesterday that your Facebook friends randomly started checking into a place called ‘Standing Rock’ in America. No, they hadn’t taken a holiday to the US, they were checking in on Facebook to support protestors opposed to a new oil pipeline. Here’s what we know so far.
What are they protesting for?
Remember a few weeks ago when actress Shailene Woodley was arrested during a protest? Well, she was protesting in North Dakota against the very same oil pipeline project people are talking about now. The pipeline is said to cross between North Dakota, South Dakota, Iowa and Illinois, transporting 570, 000 barrels of oil and impacting waterways and historic sites along the way.
So why are people checking in at ‘Standing Rock?’
A post was was shared on Facebook asking people to check in, regardless of their current location and has quickly spread across social media. By checking in, it means police are unable to use Facebook locations to track down the protesters who are actually on site.
Is this for real?
We have no idea to be honest. It’s still really unclear if this is jus a viral post, spreading across the internet, or if the protestors are actually spreading it. It’s also unclear if the police are even using Facebook as a means to locate the protestors. The one thing we do know is it’s a clear indicator that a lot of people worldwide are against the pipeline.
How do I check in at Standing Rock?
To do so all you have to do is share your location at ‘Standing Rock,’ and make it public. Don’t clarify on your check in why you are doing this, so if anyone else messages you asking what’s up explain in private - as it could blow the cover.
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Actress Shailene Woodley Was Arrested During A Protest. And She Live Streamed The Whole Thing
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This article originally appeared on The Debrief.