Whiteclay, NE Activism
Whiteclay is a city in Nebraska with a population of 12 that neighbors the Pine Ridge Reservation in South Dakota. Prior to Frank LaMere's activism, Whitclay was known for their four liquor stores that are heavily dependent on sales from residents of the alcohol free Pine Ridge. More than 42 million cans of beer were sold by Whiteclay in the last 10 years, and about 7 beers are sold every minute. The sales of Whiteclay fuels the alcoholism that affects families on a reservation where alcohol is illegal.
Frank LaMere fought for 22 years to shut down the four liquor stores. Finally on April 30th, 2017 at midnight the four stores officially lost their licenses, ending decades of controversy regarding the sales on the border of the dry Pine Ridge Reservation.
The youtube video below titled Whiteclay Decision starting at 1:12 ending at 1:31 has Frank discussing the small win for the community at the court decision for liquor licensing. The video is from the Nebraska Liquor Control Commission's decision hearing on April 19, 2017.
Sources:
Herrera-Schlichting, R., & Holmes, R. (n.d.). Nebraska’s shameful legacy. The Wounds of Whiteclay. http://www.woundsofwhiteclay.com/_home.htm