The proposed Northern Gateway project is a twin pipeline that would carry tar sands oil from Alberta 1,170 kilometers to the marine port in Kitimat on the northern coast of B.C. Currently under public and government review, construction is scheduled to begin in 2012 if regulatory approvals are granted.

The summit was organized and hosted by the Wet'suwet'en who are seeking to protect their lands and waters in the path of the pipeline.

Over 500 people signed a statement calling for a moratorium on the mega-project and a public inquiry to address the cumulative impacts, increased tanker traffic, and whether oilsands expansion undermines action on climate change.