The people from the first day got released from jail today, without charge. They weren’t even given the expected $100 fine, though they did suffer the discomfort of a long span in a hot police van, followed by two days of detention. My photos of newly released people will be appearing soon on the Tar Sands Action Flickr feed.
Tonight’s training is nearly done and there is another big batch of activists planning to get arrested tomorrow morning.
I am unusually disconnected here, both because I don’t have a functional cell phone and because I have been busy all day every day with photography and other volunteering tasks.
The activists are impressive in their dedication and ability to maintain good spirits despite hot hours in the sun and uncomfortable hours in jail. I have also had the privilege of working with some great organizers. I hope the number of participants and level of media attention keep rising as the event proceeds. Today’s New York Times editorial condemning the Keystone XL pipeline was a very welcome bit of support.
Going to jail for the environment
President Obama can choose between a clean energy future and dirty tar sands oil
August 22, 2011|By Mike Tidwell and Cindy Parker
Keystone pipeline opponents converge in Nebraska
LINCOLN, NEB.
Activists from California, Texas and Nebraska have converged in Lincoln, Neb. to present their case against a proposed tar sands oil pipeline.
Approximately 40 people gathered Wednesday for a discussion of the Keystone XL pipeline, which is designed to carry oil from Canada to Gulf Coast refineries.
Several activists were on their way to an ongoing White House protest against the pipeline, or had just come from it after being arrested.
Environmental groups have raised concerns that the pipeline could foul underground and surface water supplies, increase air pollution around refineries and harm wildlife. Pipeline supporters say it is safe and will create much-needed jobs.