We have seen unprecedented support for the Wind Power and Green Jobs that are threatened by Mountaintop Removal. I am damn proud to be a part of this historic effort and to stand with all of you.
Since the launch of the Coal River Wind Campaign in August, more than 8,500 of you have shown your support. Since the alert went out earlier this week that Massey Energy is moving blasting rigs onto Coal River Mountain, more than 2,500 letters have been sent to WV Governor Manchin demanding that he hold Massey accountable. We have never before seen such grassroots support for a concrete & positive alternative to Mountaintop Removal, but the amazing showing we’ve had so far is not enough.
Massey Energy did not blast on Coal River Mountain yesterday because they did not have the necessary permits from the Mining Safety and Health Administration (MSHA). They’ve since gotten these permits. The very thought that Massey is looking to blast dangerously close to an underground mine makes me sick. It confirms every thought I have ever had that Don Blankenship (Massey’s head) has as little concern for mine workers as he does the communities around the mines that he operates. Although there are other permits that Massey still needs to get from government agencies – we still have time to stop their machines from taking the green jobs & wind power that we’re pushing so hard for.
Governor Joe Manchin still has the time and the power to revoke Massey’s permits. All that he needs is the will, and that’s what we’re here to give him.
We want a permanent solution to the crisis on Coal River Mountain – not one that lasts for days while Massey ties up their final permits & we hold baited breath. We want good jobs that will last for generations and will create a diverse economy in Southern WV – not jobs that will be gone by the time our kids are ready to work. We want truly CLEAN energy – not more of the same from coal companies.
In short we want our government to stand WITH the people and to have just a fraction of the guts that we have. Please, keep the pressure on, invite your friends to take action. We don’t have the time to waste – we must act and create the groundswell needed to reverse these permits.
Concrete Action Steps:
3) Attend the Rally for Green Jobs & Healthy Mountains in Charleston, WV on Sept. 16th
Wow. What a battle! This is literally a fight for clean, just energy in the face of utter destruction and greed. My thoughts and prayers are with those organizing in WV around this, and of course with Coal River Mountain. I’m gonna do what I can to get as many folks as I can to call in, sign on the pledge and generally let it be known that the future is wind! SI SE PUEDE!
I am trying to spread the word, and have blogged about this issue to try to encite the same rage I have in others. As I write this, the commercial on television is a propaganda ad for “clean coal”. We are being threatened, and most Americans have their eyes closed as the greenwashing goes on. I am praying, on my knees, for the end to this destruction. Thanks for your voice!
http://www.mamagoesgreen.blogspot.com