Environment | Opinion

Matt Remle: Tribal nations take a stand to protect Turtle Island

Friday, May 22, 2015

Tribal members participate in #ShellNo protest in Seattle, Washington. Photo by Deborah Parker via Last Real Indians

Matt Remle looks at the #ShellNo protest against oil and gas development in Alaska and tribal opposition to a coal terminal on treaty lands in Washington:

News of Shell’s drilling rig coming to Seattle quickly spread and a weekend of mass demonstrations were organized in opposition.
On May 16th, thousands joined in a mass demonstration, both on land and in the Puget Sound, against Shell Oil’s plan to drill in the Arctic. Tribal canoes were joined by Kayaktavists who took to the frigid waters of the Puget Sound to encircle the Polar Pioneer. Following a traditional protocol landing lead by the Duwamish, a massive rally took place featuring Alaskan Natives and other tribal leaders.
On May 18th, a second demonstration was held at the Port of Seattle. Thousands again marched and set up blockades to the entrance of the Port of Seattle.
The series of actions were proceeded by a gathering of nine tribal Nations in Seattle on May 14th, who gathered to express their joint opposition to the proposed Gateway Pacific Terminal. The GPT, if built, would be the largest coal export terminal in the U.S. The terminal is proposed to be built on the traditional lands of the Lummi Nation.
With the recent mass demonstrations in Seattle, tribal Nations across Turtle Island continue to lead the larger efforts to combat climate change, ending the desecration of Mother Earth, and towards protecting the welfare of future generations.

Get the Story:
Matt Remle: #ShellNo & Opposition to Arctic Drilling (Last Real Indians 5/22)

Also Today:
Lummi Youth Learn the Bigger Picture: Canoes Join Kayactivists Protesting Arctic Drilling (Indian Country Today 5/22)