1,200 say stop Line 3 at Gichi-gami Gathering

On September 28th in Duluth, 1,200 of us came together for a really amazing event: the Gichi-gami Gathering to Stop Line 3.

I’m writing to share a few memories of this day and what comes next. Even if you weren’t able to join us in Duluth, I hope you can join the March on Enbridge to Protect the Sacred in Clearbrook, MN this coming Sunday and Monday.

The day began with drumming, screen printing, loads of community organizations tabling, a giant piece of chalk art, and more:

We listened to a powerful rally with speakers from around the movement…

…then marched out along Gichi-gami under a stunning blue sky…

…and back through Canal Park.

On the beach before returning to the park, we did a massive round dance to honor murdered and missing Indigenous women (MMIW), an issue intimately connected with the oil and pipeline industry. We also took a picture with letters spelling out Stop Line 3:

Back at the park, we shared a meal together, listened to music by Jeffrey James, and held educational workshops on treaty rights and nonviolent pipeline resistance.

What an incredible day! I’m filled with gratitude for everyone who made it possible, who planned, volunteered, donated, or showed up. All video footage and some photos are courtesy of Sadie Luetmer, Mateo Trujillo, and Rory Wakemup; additional photos by Aimee Sutherland and yours truly.

How to carry on the momentum / where to go from here? This Monday — Indigenous Peoples Day — join us and many allies at the March on Enbridge to Protect the Sacred in Clearbrook, MN, the site of a massive Enbridge pipeline terminal. If you’re in the metro area, there are still a few seats left on the bus we’re organizing, which leaves on Sunday — reserve yours today before they’re gone.

We’re also holding a Line 3 Background & Campaign Update Video Call on Wednesday, October 23 at 7pm (share it on Facebook too). Whether you’re new to this movement or just looking for the latest info, consider joining — we’ll explain the latest developments and have a chance for Q&A. You can do this one from home!

This movement is bold, and beautiful, full of incredible creativity and commitment and leaders from many backgrounds. Sometimes, I think it takes big moments like the Gichi-gami Gathering to remember just how powerful we can be when we stand together. We can take on the oil industry and we can win.