ACLU creates new position focusing on indigenous issues

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (AP) – The American Civil Liberties Union is creating a new position in South Dakota focusing on indigenous issues.

ACLU director of campaigns Sabrina King says the position will be modeled on the organization’s indigenous justice program in Montana. King will supervise the new South Dakota position.

The ACLU has long wanted to build on its work on indigenous issues in the state. The idea took on new urgency after South Dakota this year passed laws aimed at potential Keystone XL protests.

The laws allow for tougher penalties for so-called “riot boosting,” defined in part as encouraging violence during a riot. The ACLU is challenging the law in federal court.

AP-WF-07-30-19 1327GMT