He is a Creek, Seminole, Quapaw, Shawnee, Delaware and Cherokee Indian. He first went to the camp following the September 3rd clashes sparked by Dakota Access Pipeline private security releasing dogs on unarmed, peaceful Water Protectors. Having worked in the movie industry as a Key Grip, and with a longtime passion for photography, Harjo decided to use his talents to extensively document the protests. He wants to use his photos to combat the corporate media blackout, completely insufficient reporting on the police occupation, and lack of a Native perspective in reporting of any kind. Tom speaks about his photos below.