"we have to leave" - 72 hours in the US town about to disappear

Summary

Yes Theory travels to Kivalina, a remote Iñupiaq village in northwestern Alaska, to document a community facing the threat of relocation. The village sits on a narrow strip of land between the ocean and inland waterways. As the Arctic warms, sea ice forms later and melts earlier, leaving the shore less protected from storms and erosion. Residents describe losing shoreline over decades; one storm in 2004 reportedly washed away more than 12 metres in some areas. A seawall, evacuation road, and bridge have helped, but have not removed the danger.

The community is preparing to move about seven miles inland to higher ground known as K-Hill, where some infrastructure, including a school, has been built. Residents have differing views: some are moving, while others say they want to remain near their ancestral land, hunting grounds, and the ocean. The filmmakers also hear how relocation may affect daily life, especially for children and for people whose livelihoods and culture depend on the surrounding land and waters.

During their visit, the hosts meet local families, share caribou soup, and go upriver fishing. Residents describe changes they have witnessed, including more rain, earlier melting, and less predictable conditions. One local says belugas have not been seen in recent years, though they were once caught annually. The trip also highlights the importance of subsistence and sharing food within the community.

Climate change is not the only environmental concern raised. Residents describe a long-running struggle over pollution they associate with the nearby Red Dog Mine, including spills and concerns about contamination affecting water, plants, and fish. One local works as a water-quality technician, collecting samples for laboratory testing, and says she still avoids drinking from the Wulik River.

As a storm approaches, residents prepare for a possible evacuation to the school. The hosts’ fishing plans are disrupted, and flights are temporarily uncertain, but the weather clears enough for them to leave on the first available flight. The video closes by emphasizing residents’ determination to protect their community and adapt, while arguing that remote communities facing climate impacts should not have to confront them alone.

Presenters and contributors

• Presenters: Thomas and Stefan
• Production contributor: Daniel
• Featured local contributors, as named in the subtitles: Janet/Janette, Colleen, Reppie/Rappie, Jerry, Glenn, Stephan, Johnny, Cali, Melvin, Cassandra, Ikey, Martha, and a local Thomas.