It is disturbing to watch what is happening on Standing Rock and in North Dakota. Leaders ignoring those who they're entrusted with representing. Standing Rock is a failed democracy.

State government entities backing and imposing the views of a radical few over the common sense of the progressive many, all in the name of political correctness; or maybe it's fear of a racist label, who knows?

Standing Rock voted overwhelmingly to continue the use of our nation's "Sioux" name one year ago. This vote was an attempt to sidetrack the University of North Dakota nickname issue by the anti-logo movement in their efforts to deny a consensus referendum on Standing Rock. A moratorium was implemented intentionally for one reason: to silence and deny the inevitable truth. Standing Rock will vote in favor of UND, same as Spirit Lake; otherwise, why make such political efforts to ensure denial of a vote? It's a complete contradiction to democracy.

Spirit Lake members forced the UND issue to a ballot, and the results were not surprising in Sioux country; we've known it all along - a 2-to-1 ratio in favor of UND, the same as our Standing Rock Sioux vote. The collective Sioux voice has been heard consistently, but is still ignored. Is this not enough evidence?

Still, North Dakota, along with the rest of country, continues to submit to this vocal few. Facts are: We are proud to be Sioux, and we are proud of the UND Fighting Sioux.

The North Dakota Board of Higher Education has their reasons for their decision, but one would assume that North Dakota traditions, democratic evidence, progress and common sense would hold much more weight than baseless rumors and athletic conference availability.

They are failing North Dakota's heritage, much like Standing Rock leadership has failed us. At the moment, the politicians are winning, but there is still time.

Where are our leaders?