Riverside Community Church and Columbia Riverkeeper are bringing the award-winning documentary, These Sacred Hills, to our community. The film raises important questions about how decisions about energy development, land and water use, and environmental protection affect Tribal communities.

The Goldendale Energy Storage Project is central to the story of These Sacred Hills. The project would be developed near Pushpum, a place of deep cultural and spiritual significance to members of the Rock Creek Band of Yakama Nation. In the film, Indigenous community members share personal stories about their relationship with the land, cultural heritage, and the importance of protecting sacred spaces.

These Sacred Hills encourages an important conversation: How can we transition to cleaner energy without sacrificing Indigenous sacred places and cultural resources? The goal is not to simply watch the documentary. After the screening, a panel discussion will occur with Elaine Harvey (Rock Creek Band Member and Watershed Dept. Manager for the Columbia River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission), Chief Bronsco Jim Jr., Jeremey Takala (Yakama Nation Councilman), and the filmmakers, Chris Ward and Jacob Bailey.

Cost: A $10.00 donation is appreciated to help cover costs

Date: Sept 18, 2026

Location: Riverview Room at Riverside Community Church

Time: 5:30 p.m. – Light supper / finger food

6:00 p.m. – Introductions and film showing

7:30 p.m. – Panel discussion

Everyone in the community is welcome to attend. RSVP to office AT riversideucc.com