Sunday, June 24, 2012

Protesting at the Statehouse with Don't Frack OH!

Last weekend my husband and I dug some cardboard out of our recycling bin, slathered on the sunscreen and packed our lunches to join other concerned Ohioans in Columbus for the "Don't Frack OH" protest.  We tried to make our protest signs snarky but informative since we know that the easiest way to grab someone's attention is through humor and great visual aides (being teachers we have lots of experience with this).  We had numerous onlookers chuckle at our signs and lots of "atta-boy" and "atta-girl" comments.

On the Ohio Statehouse Steps

The protest was to draw attention to the recent legislature that passed regarding fracking in Ohio-- SB 315.  Some of the main components of the legislation included disclosing (but not really..?) the chemicals in fracking injection fluid, as well as a gag order for medical doctors regarding issues concerning fracking.  My husband and I have been concerned about fracking since we first found out about it and while most topics become less scary the more someone becomes educated about the topic, I've found the exact opposite with fracking.  I've basically found that the Ohio State Government (i.e. Kasich, numerous representatives & senators) is doing all it can to court the gas industry (and you can check out the political donations from the gas industry and see how this tit-for-tat mentality has been playing out). 

Josh Fox, director of Gasland, speaking at the Don't Frack OH! protest

Josh Fox, the director of Gasland made an appearance at the rally and spoke both before and after the march from Arch Park to the Statehouse.  He was even harrassed by a seemingly disturbed man to the point that the police had to usher the man away from Fox.

Inside the Ohio Statehouse with the Don't Frack OH! protesters

While much of the protesting included chants, walking and listening to testimonies from homeowners living near fracking sites, I felt particularly invigorated in that my husband and I were able to contribute our concerns through a handful of interviews conducted by various media sources.  While I know how important it is to physically be present to voice concerns and protest with the facts in hand; knowing that my concerns were heard made the trip even more worthwhile.

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