More Allies on Day Four as Protectors Sprayed
by Darren Moore
Thursday, 28 June, 2017. Tacoma, Washington. As the fourth day of roadside resistance unfolded, the Water Warriors welcomed a dozen new faces, swelling their ranks and amplifying the energy that fuels their stand against the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) plant. With every newcomer, the sense of unity and hope intensifies, contrasting sharply with the environmental threats that surround them.
Pierce County is no stranger to compromised air quality, a problem further exacerbated by industrial activity at the Port of Tacoma. As the windless evening settled in, face masks were distributed among the Warriors to combat the increasingly poor air—though for some, even this wasn’t enough to ease their breathing. This tangible degradation of air quality further underscored that they were fighting against an unsustainable and harmful relationship with the environment.
A moment of concern rippled through the group when a vac truck appeared to spray an unidentified white substance over the protesters, although this action wasn’t confirmed. This unsettling incident added another layer of adversity to their already daunting mission. Yet, amid these challenges, a glimmer of hope shone through construction on the LNG pipeline has been put on hold until July 17th. This pause allows the Warriors to regroup, though they understand the fight is far from over.
The looming LNG facility represents more than a potential industrial eyesore; it directly threatens the Puyallup Tribe’s sovereign rights and environmental well-being. This proposed plant endangers air quality and poses a severe risk to the intricate balance of the local ecosystem. The Water Warriors, old and new alike, recognize that their struggle extends far beyond this immediate hazard. It is rooted in larger issues of environmental justice and tribal sovereignty.
As they take advantage of this brief respite, they prepare for the challenges that undoubtedly lie ahead. The fight is about more than just a pipeline or a facility; it’s about respectful coexistence on sovereign land. Armed with an unwavering commitment to protecting the air, water, and land that has sustained their people for generations, the Water Warriors promise to come back revitalized and ready for whatever comes next.
Additional Information: Link to Ancestral Waters Documentary
First appearing on June 29, 2017, this article is part of an ongoing series documenting the Indigenous-led campaign against the Tacoma LNG facility.
The article has since been edited to remove time-sensitive elements, such as calls to action, in order to serve as an historical and educational resource. You can also explore other related articles and resources on the Ancestral Waters page for a more contextual understanding of the issues and events.
While the full “Ancestral Waters” documentary is available for screenings, we invite you to watch the trailer for a glimpse into the comprehensive story of resiliency and activism told in the film.
