STORY about Direct Action posted on November 29, 2012 by Chris Johnson
Sing, Stand, and Send I.T. on its Merry Way!
Cortes Island Logging Blockade: Day Two
The children say the trucks aren't getting through today.
Also posted by Chris Johnson:
Also in Direct Action:
Today was the second day of peaceful demonstrations in front of Island
Timberlands' road access at Basil Creek. I.T. trucks were met this morning by many community members who are taking a stand. This cross-section included former loggers, oyster farmers, and forest supporters of all ages. The camaraderie on the site was fabulous and spirits were kept high
with singing and the generous food and drink donations that were brought over by supporters.
Shane Worth from the Quadra Island RCMP detachment made an appearance on Tuesday and Wednesday. All parties were very respectful and a designated 'police liaison' shared communications between protesters and the law enforcement present. Police let demonstrators know that there would be no arrests at this time. By mid-morning, Island Timberlands' crew and security left the site. Community members remained at the road discussing the events of the day and sharing soup around the fire.
At 1:30pm, North Island MLA Claire Trevena and Area B Regional Director Noba Anderson arrived on site. Trevena initiated a dialogue with the people present asking about what people’s concerns are with regard to Island Timberlands’ logging. She also shared some of her thoughts about the current situation. She is hoping to participate in mitigating the possible conflict and would like to support the community towards that endeavor.
There has also been a fair bit of media coverage today including an interview with I.T.'s Human Resources Director on CBC's "All Points West", and the feature news story on Global BC's late night news hour.
Momentum is gaining now and we hope that the community can continue to support these peaceful efforts. Donations of food and/or resources can be brought directly to someone on-site at the road. Thank you all for your courage and desire to change the face of forestry in BC. For more up to date information, please go to the WildStands website and follow our Facebook page.
CBC's "All Points West" host has asked that people call in to comment and to share their thoughts about the proposed logging and also about the demonstrations. Please call in so that they keep covering our story and know that this issue matters to their listeners!
Listen to the show here:
http://www.cbc.ca/allpointswest/
And then call 1 800 757 1446 to comment!
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