The completion of the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion project, a critical artery for Canada’s oil industry, has ignited renewed controversy, particularly concerning its impact on Indigenous lands and treaty rights. A new documentary, Pípsell: The Last Stand, directed by Geordie Day and Brandi Morin, and hosted by Morin, brings into sharp focus the human and environmental costs associated with the project, specifically focusing on the Secwépemc Nation’s struggle to protect their sacred site of Pípsell, near Kamloops, British Columbia. The film, produced in partnership with The Real News Network and Ricochet Media, premiered at the 2025 Calgary Justice Film Festival and offers a detailed account of the resistance faced by Indigenous land defenders and their allies.
The Trans Mountain pipeline, Canada’s only pipeline system transporting crude oil from Alberta to the West Coast, has long been a subject of debate, balancing economic benefits with environmental and social concerns. The expansion project, designed to nearly triple capacity, has faced significant opposition, particularly from Indigenous communities whose traditional territories are traversed by the pipeline route. The Secwépemc Nation’s resistance at Pípsell represents a pivotal moment in this ongoing conflict, highlighting the tension between resource development and the protection of Indigenous rights and cultural heritage. The documentary aims to expose the complexities of this situation, offering a platform for the voices of those directly affected by the pipeline’s construction.
Pípsell, too known as Jacko Lake, holds deep spiritual significance for the Secwépemc people. According to reports from CBC News, the site is considered sacred under Secwepemc law, known as X7ensq’t, which emphasizes respect for the land and warns of consequences for its disrespect. Construction resumed near Pípsell in October 2023 after the federal regulator approved a route change, a decision that the Secwépemc Nation views as a continuation of cultural genocide. Mike McKenzie, a Secwepemc knowledge keeper, articulated this sentiment, stating the destruction of the site represents a further violation of their ancestral connection to the land. The documentary reportedly details the events surrounding this route change and the subsequent actions taken by land defenders.
The Fight for Pípsell: A Violation of Treaty Rights
The core of the conflict at Pípsell centers on the alleged violation of prior agreements and treaty rights held by the Secwépemc Nation. The documentary, as described in promotional materials, examines how the pipeline expansion proceeded despite these concerns, raising questions about the Canadian government’s commitment to reconciliation with Indigenous peoples. The Secwépemc Nation asserts that the pipeline’s construction infringes upon their inherent right to self-determination and their responsibility to protect their cultural heritage. The film reportedly showcases the intense struggle of land defenders who attempted to halt the completion of the expansion, facing potential legal repercussions and safety risks in the process.
The Trans Mountain pipeline expansion has been a significant undertaking, with substantial financial implications for Canada’s energy sector. The project’s completion is seen by some as a boon for the oil industry, providing increased access to international markets. However, critics argue that the economic benefits are outweighed by the environmental risks associated with potential spills and the broader impact on climate change. The conflict at Pípsell underscores the social costs of the project, highlighting the deep divisions it has created between the government, industry, and Indigenous communities. The documentary aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of these competing perspectives.
Brandi Morin and Geordie Day: Documenting the Struggle
Pípsell: The Last Stand is the result of a collaboration between Brandi Morin, an award-winning Cree/Iroquois/French journalist, and Geordie Day, a documentary filmmaker. Morin brings a wealth of experience covering Indigenous issues, having contributed to numerous prominent publications, including National Geographic, Al Jazeera English, and the Guardian. She won a Human Rights Reporting award from the Canadian Association of Journalists in 2019 for her work tracking the progress of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action. Day’s filmmaking expertise complements Morin’s journalistic background, resulting in a documentary that aims to be both informative and emotionally resonant.
The documentary’s production involved extensive on-the-ground reporting, capturing the experiences of land defenders and community members directly impacted by the pipeline’s construction. The filmmakers reportedly gained access to sensitive areas and documented the challenges faced by those resisting the project. The film’s cinematic approach is intended to immerse viewers in the struggle, fostering a deeper understanding of the issues at stake. The involvement of The Real News Network and Ricochet Media suggests a commitment to independent journalism and a focus on amplifying marginalized voices.
Environmental and Economic Considerations
Beyond the immediate concerns of Indigenous rights, the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion raises broader environmental questions. Opponents of the project point to the potential for oil spills, which could have devastating consequences for the surrounding ecosystems. The pipeline route traverses sensitive areas, including rivers, forests, and wetlands, increasing the risk of environmental damage. The expansion contributes to Canada’s overall carbon footprint, hindering efforts to address climate change. The documentary is expected to explore these environmental concerns in detail, presenting evidence of the potential risks associated with the pipeline.
Economically, the Trans Mountain pipeline expansion is projected to generate significant revenue for Canada’s oil industry and government. Proponents argue that the project will create jobs and stimulate economic growth. However, critics contend that the economic benefits are overstated and that the long-term costs, including environmental remediation and social disruption, have not been adequately considered. The documentary reportedly examines the economic arguments surrounding the pipeline, offering a critical assessment of its potential benefits and drawbacks. The debate over the pipeline highlights the complex trade-offs between economic development and environmental sustainability.
The documentary’s release comes at a time of increasing scrutiny of fossil fuel projects and growing awareness of the need for a transition to a more sustainable energy future. The conflict at Pípsell serves as a microcosm of the larger challenges facing Canada and other countries as they grapple with the competing demands of economic growth, environmental protection, and Indigenous rights. Pípsell: The Last Stand aims to contribute to this conversation, providing a platform for marginalized voices and challenging conventional narratives about resource development.
The documentary’s global debut at the 2025 Calgary Justice Film Festival signals its potential to reach a wide audience and spark dialogue about these critical issues. Those interested in organizing screenings can contact The Real News Network at [email protected]. A transcript of the documentary is expected to be released at a later date, further enhancing its accessibility and impact.
As of March 10, 2026, the Trans Mountain pipeline remains operational, and the debate surrounding its environmental and social impacts continues. Further developments regarding legal challenges and potential future expansions are anticipated. The ongoing struggle for Indigenous rights and environmental protection underscores the need for continued vigilance and advocacy. The documentary Pípsell: The Last Stand offers a powerful testament to the resilience of Indigenous communities and their unwavering commitment to protecting their lands and cultures. We encourage readers to share this article and engage in constructive dialogue about the issues raised within.