Avatar is the story of a crew of human space explorers that have begun to invade another planet for its natural resources, and take by force a sacred land from the native peoples. Shortly after its release I took a research position in 'green' energy. I moved to Vancouver and soon began making catalyst beds for hydrogen propulsion systems and living in a depressing apartment a long way from campus. Vancouver is a very expensive place to live, and I soon found that I would never be able to furnish my apartment, and instead I relished in my ability to sprawl on the floor unimpeded. With no TV to watch I soon found myself becoming involved in social justice issues in the area, the most contentious being the Keystone pipeline through Native territory. Soon after natives began to band together in opposition of the pipeline, the government issued a major omnibus bill that stripped many of the environmental protections the native peoples relied on. In addition, federal research facilities were shut down (including the one I was employed at) and scientists were forbidden from speaking to the media, effectively stripping the aboriginal peoples of a voice as well as environmental advocates supporting their cause.
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