Official Launch of the Climate9 Defence Campaign
Show solidarity with the Climate9, who risk being imprisoned for taking direct action against the causes of climate change.
Thu 3rd June 2010, 06:30pm – 08:30pm
The Khalili Lecture Theatre, SOAS University, Thornhaugh Street, Russell Square, London WC1H 0XG
Written by Amelia Gregory
Category: Earth
Who are the Climate9? Well, these 9 anti-aviation activists took direct action against airport expansion in Aberdeen in March 2009, and currently face a court case that could land them in prison for several years. The Climate9 Defence Committee campaign has been launched to support and defend the actions of such grassroots campaigners, who believe that climate change causes such an urgent threat to our lives and ecosystems that we must take drastic action.
Many people have come together in solidarity with the Climate9 and you are urged to send statements of support if you cannot attend this meeting to launch the Climate9 campaign officially. (see this link) The evening will feature speeches from top human rights lawyer Gareth Peirce, leading environmentalist John Stewart and civil rights activist Suresh Grover, with many more to be announced.
Quotes of solidarity:
“One of the big issues of the 21st century is undoubtedly that of climate change. Not only its implications for human existence but also for global justice. I support the work of those engaged in bringing light to shine on this matter of paramount importance for our future. I offer my solidarity to the Climate 9 defence committee in their struggle for justice”. Linton Kwesi Johnson
“Civilisation has never progressed by squatting in its comfort zone. The great human breakthroughs have always been led by small clusters of brave individuals taking costly stands. History will be the ultimate court of opinion that will judge the climate protestors. In so doing, may its hand not be forced to judge our wider British society too harshly.” Professor Alastair McIntosh, Centre for Human Ecology.
“Whatever the price we have to pay for speaking the truth, the Climate9 are publicly prepared to do so, to try and bring justice for those detrimentally affected by climate change. This is supposed to be a democratic country and we can participate in political activity. The Climate9 will not uphold increasing state and police repression and camouflage the war that is climate injustice. All over the world people demanding climate justice have complained to the magistrates about magistrates, complained to the judges about judges and complained to the politicians about politicians. It's time we did something for ourselves. Whatever happens to us, the Climate9 trial is an opportunity to spread the need for urgent action and to challenge the authorities with pride and confidence.” Dan Glass, Climate9 defendant