Tripods Up, Grannies Aquitted
by Darren Moore
Today’s events in Tacoma unfolded as a microcosm of a larger, urgent narrative that the world needs to heed. Marilyn Kimmerling and Cynthia Linet—two women who have earned the moniker “legendary grannies”—are not of the Puyallup Tribe or any Indigenous community. Yet, they’ve placed themselves on the front lines of a fight that transcends individual identities. Theirs is a resistance steeped in collective consciousness—a clash not merely between community members and city ordinances but between divergent philosophies on justice, sovereignty, and Earth stewardship.
Early this morning, as they stood trial for their involvement in an earlier direct action against the Tacoma Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility, one could feel the weight of anticipation hanging over the courtroom like a low cloud. A parallel narrative was taking shape just three miles away, where activists known as the “Tripodistas” deployed an innovative tripod blockade at the gates of the facility itself.
The trial culminated in a verdict that sent ripples of triumph and relief through the room. Ramona Bennett, a venerable figure with roots in the Puyallup Tribe’s leadership, lent her voice in defense of the legendary grannies. When the verdict of “not guilty” was announced, the judge could only caution restraint in a courtroom that had already broken into visceral expressions of joy and solidarity.
Dakota Case, a steadfast advocate for his tribe and its sovereignty, expressed his deep respect for Kimmerling and Linet. “Our hands go up to these brave women,” he said, his words carrying both personal and cultural significance. “They stayed the course to stand up for what is right. They were able to prove that they were not guilty of the charge that the City of Tacoma had brought against them.”
The intertwined stories of these activists and elders form the backbone of a community-driven resistance against an existential threat—the LNG facility. With each peaceful demonstration and courtroom victory, the stakes are driven home with increasing clarity. This isn’t just about the here and now; it’s about a heritage of stewardship and the future of a planet teetering on the brink of a climate catastrophe.
Ramona Bennett, Marilyn Kimmerling, and Cynthia Linet are the epitome of enduring activism. They are elders who capture the essence of resilience and wisdom. These are attributes honored deeply by cultures that understand the long-view of history and the interconnectedness of life. Their continued involvement underscores their commitment to a legacy of struggle, not just for the Puyallup Tribe, but for communities everywhere.
Today’s events serve as a stark reminder. As the machinery of the LNG project grinds on, encroaching upon the Puyallup Tribe’s treaty rights and challenging their sovereignty, it also tests the mettle of a community united in its resistance. What happened today isn’t just a chapter in an ongoing saga; it’s a clarion call to the world. In the face of ecological and social imbalance, the voices ringing out from Tacoma remind us of the imperative to honor the wisdom and courage found in those fighting for both climate and social justice.
Additional Information: Link to Ancestral Waters Documentary
First appearing on December 14, 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.
