Seeking an alternative to America’s consumer culture, hundreds of back-to-the-land families coalesced around Poet Laureate Gary Snyder and settled on California's San Juan Ridge in the late 1960s. Repeatedly threatened by corporate Goliaths intent on clear-cutting the Sierra forests, damming the Yuba River, and polluting the Ridge with open-pit gold mining, the community organized to defend their homesteads. Their success in overcoming these seemingly impossible obstacles has created national models of sustainability. Now, they are facing their greatest threat of all: climate-driven wildfires.

A Radical Thread is set against the dramatic scars of 19th century hydraulic gold mining and told through the story of the San Juan Ridge Tapestry Project, a 17-year collaborative project stitching an 83-foot tapestry that visualizes the Ridge’s story in twelve narrative embroidered panels.

The fact that many voices contribute to the community’s narrative reflects the power of their collective nature as well the process of making the tapestry. But the main character of the film is the tapestry itself, which depicts a community founded with much optimism and hope that has learned to grow and survive in the face of challenges that include the existential threat of climate change. A RADICAL THREAD explores what can happen when a community truly dedicates itself to “living lightly on the land," and comes together to understand new ways of sustainability for future generations.

Community screening fees are for a one-time public screening based on expected attendance. You may charge admission and keep the proceeds. Prices cover a one-time in-person screening (with stream), a livestream with live chat, or streaming access for up to 3 days.

For multiple screenings, audiences over 200 people or extended virtual screening windows, contact us.

The DVD is also available for home use purchase, which is licensed only for personal use.