Blockadia Rising: Voices of the Tar Sands Blockade (2013)★ 7.3/10

US · 53 min · 2013

• Documentary

Directed by: Garrett Graham

Written by: Garrett Graham

In 2012, Texas landowners and environmental activists united to oppose a hazardous oil pipeline planned by the Canadian corporation TransCanada. The project aimed to transport tar sands from Alberta, Canada, to refineries near the Gulf of Mexico. Despite strong opposition from indigenous communities, local farmers, and global environmental movements, the project persisted. During this struggle, a resilient community of resistance formed, attracting volunteers from across the continent. Through the power of nonviolent direct action, these activists successfully thwarted the multi-million dollar corporation TransCanada. The documentary honors the efforts of the blockaders and campaign participants, shedding light on the dangers of tar sands mining, the public health risks associated with pipelines, and the nonviolent direct action strategies that halted construction.