Five of Americas biggest brewers are the subject of a $500 million federal lawsuit filed by Oglala Sioux Tribe of South Dakota. The tribe is claiming that the brewers intentionally added to the problems of an already vulnerable population. The relatively large tribe has struggled with alcoholism and its related health effects since 1832.

The funds generated from the suit are reportedly going to social services, health care, and other alcohol-related rehabilitation programs aimed at bettering the community. No mention has been made about what particular breweries are named in the lawsuit, but I think we can probably guess who they might be.

It will be interesting to see how far this case gets in court and what evidence the tribe has to substanciate their claims. Depending on the outcome, I would be interested in filing a grievance over some hangovers I have suffered through.