Rising Tide North America released this statement in response to the “guilty” verdict rendered by a Federal court today against climate activist Tim DeChristopher in Salt Lake City, UT.
“Rising Tide North America stands in solidarity with our good friend and ally Tim DeChristopher, who was convicted today by a federal court on two felony counts. DeChristopher successfully derailed the illegal sale of public land from the outgoing Bush administration to private oil and gas developers and has been heavily persecuted for his non-violent civil disobedience. We applaud the courageous work of Peaceful Uprising for standing with Tim for the past two years and building a strong community to respond to these outrageous actions by the Obama Administration.
“If we want to achieve our vision,” DeChristopher said. “Many more will have to join me.” “[I’m] not one finger, easily broken, but part of a fist.”
Salt Lake City, UT– The climate justice group Rising Tide North America released this statement today in response to the “guilty” verdict rendered by a Federal court today against climate activist Tim DeChristopher in Salt Lake City, UT:
“Rising Tide North America stands in solidarity with our good friend and ally Tim DeChristopher, who was convicted today by a federal court on two felony counts. DeChristopher successfully derailed the illegal sale of public land from the outgoing Bush administration to private oil and gas developers and has been heavily persecuted for his non-violent civil disobedience. Wea pplaud the courageous work of Peaceful Uprising for standing with Tim for the past two years and building a strong community to respond to these outrageous actions by the Obama Administration.
“The prosecution of Tim DeChristopher is part of a broader strategy by the federal government and Corporate America to prevent effective action by our movements. Tim’s actions stopped the development of pristine wilderness near Arches and Canyonlands National Park for oil and gas interests, and prevented the release of greenhouse gases causing catastrophic climate change. Furthermore, it cost Big Oil millions of dollars in profit. Corporations and the government don’t want a climate movement willing to take such risks to stop their doomsday economy costing them untold profits.
“Our democracy is broken. Our voices are not heard. Corporations own politicians in Washington and state capitols like Salt Lake City and make it impossible for ordinary people to have a voice on crucial issues such as global warming. Large environmental groups are also compromised as they pander to politicians and seek funding from corporate donors. Tim’s action is an example of a powerful and courageous direct action that is largely missing from the greater environmental movement and our democracy.
“As we watch uprisings from the Middle East to the Midwest, the actions and words of ordinary people are beginning to be heard more and more. Singling out Tim DeChristopher for prosecution and a prison term only further pierces the veil our elected and corporate leaders have over the general public. The power in Tim’s act of civil disobedience and his willingness to go to prison to advance the climate movement gives us hope. Our fight is only beginning.”
A little over two years ago, our friend and comrade Tim DeChristopher put it all on the line when he entered a federal auction and derailed it so that oil and gas companies could not destroy the planet.
Tim is now facing ten years in prison on two felony charges for stopping that illegal sale of public land. Furthermore, federal prosecutors have decided to make an example of Tim, so that anyone speaking out or taking effective action to save their community or the planet will be intimidated into staying home.
Rising Tide North America is proudly standing with Tim DeChristopher, and anyone else who takes bold action in the defense of the planet. At his trial on Feb. 28, we’re joining Tim’s group and Rising Tide affiliate, Peaceful Uprising as they mobilize outside the courthouse in solidarity with Tim.
If you able to join us, please come to Salt Lake City for the Uprising Summit on Feb 25-27 and Tim’s trial on Feb 28. If you can’t join us, consider organizing a solidarity action in support of Tim in your home town.
Thanks for all your support.