Block the Gates
by Darren Moore
The “Block The Gates” event on December 18, 2017, stood as a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle against the Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) facility at the Port of Tacoma. Organized as a vocal and visible demonstration of opposition, the event aimed to halt the progress of what many considered illegal construction at the LNG site. Its objective was clear and straightforward: to gather 200 or more volunteers to effectively disrupt the construction process and draw public attention to the cause.
Key environmental and indigenous groups united for this cause to stand with The Puyallup Tribe of Indians. Protectors of the Salish Sea, 350Seattle, Native Daily Network, ReDefine Tacoma, 350Tacoma, and the Backbone Campaign joined forces, lending their voices and presence to the demonstration. United in their belief, these groups saw the act of physically blocking construction as a potent means to not only slow the environmental damage but also to significantly raise public awareness about the issues at stake.
In a strategic move to maximize their impact, the demonstration commenced in the early morning hours. It was a time chosen for its symbolism as much as its practicality: a new day dawning on the fight for environmental justice. Some protesters took a bold step, using lockboxes to bind themselves together in various locations, a physical manifestation of their commitment and solidarity.
As the morning unfolded, the situation escalated. The Tacoma Police Department responded to the gathering with an increasing presence, as the protesters’ activities began to impact local traffic. This action and the resulting negotiations created a palpable tension in the air. The frustrations of big rig drivers, inconvenienced by the demonstration, added a human element to the complex interplay of interests. Protesters, for their part, remained resolute, demanding that all workers vacate the site by noon and pledging to disperse if this condition was met.
In a strategic move to maximize their impact, the demonstration commenced in the early morning hours. It was a time chosen for its symbolism as much as its practicality: a new day dawning on the fight for environmental justice. Some protesters took a bold step, using lockboxes to bind themselves together in various locations, a physical manifestation of their commitment and solidarity.
However, as the deadline approached, negotiations faltered. The police issued a stern warning of mass arrests should the road not be cleared. The leaders of the demonstration, prioritizing the safety of all involved, made a tactical decision. They chose to regroup a few blocks south, on tribal land—a move that was not only strategic but also deeply symbolic. It underscored the unwavering commitment of the indigenous community and their allies in the ongoing struggle against the LNG facility, a struggle rooted deeply in the preservation of the environment and respect for tribal sovereignty.
This day, with its mix of determination, unity, and resistance, illustrated a critical chapter in the narrative of environmental activism and indigenous sovereignty at the Port of Tacoma. It served as a powerful reminder of the lengths to which communities will go to protect their land, their rights, and their future.
Additional Information: Link to Ancestral Waters Documentary
First appearing on December 18, 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.Sep
