Within a day or three–possibly as early as tomorrow–the (Ig) Noble Discoverer will leave Everett, on its way to the Arctic.
But it ain’t over. For one thing, Shell may have hit a permitting snag. For another, let’s face it, they haven’t been excessively competent in their efforts. And here in Seattle, we’ll be continuing our efforts at every level–political, educational, direct action–to keep the rigs from returning here (or, ideally, anywhere) ever again.
Meanwhile, we’re having a vigil, on land and (for those who wish) on water, to mark the departure of the rig. We focused attention worldwide on the folly and injustice of Arctic drilling, and that’s an excellent start, but there’s no denying that however distressed we were to see these rigs arrive, we’re more distressed to see them leave.
Some of the kayakers may try to block the rig; they’d love your help. We’ll have (a few) extra kayaks available for those without.
In recent days, 800 people have died in an unprecedented heatwave in Karachi: these are the stakes. If Arctic drilling goes forward, it will embed ever more tragedies, permanently, into our future.
Please come join us, for a few hours or all night or all day, and sit with us in sorrow, in hope, and most of all in determination. Sign up for shifts on land (2458 W Marine View Dr) and/or on water (at the public boat launch, north of the Marina at the Port of Everett),…and please bring candles, flashlights, and your own signs (if you have them–if not, no worries).
