On Saturday June 26th, people from around the world will join hands for 15 minutes at local beaches to say no to offshore oil drilling and yes to clean energy. The event, called "Hands Across the Sand," is a movement of people from all walks of life and political affiliations. This movement is not about politics; it is about protection of our coastal economies, oceans, marine wildlife, and fishing industry. Nearly 700 sites are planned worldwide.
There are several locations planned for the Los Angeles area. View areas here.
A press conference will be held near the Santa Monica Pier at 11am where environmentalists, elected officials and other keynote speakers will address the need to move beyond fossil fuels.
Considering millions of gallons of oil are still pouring into the Gulf of Mexico everyday, we need to send a clear message to State Legislators, Congress and President Obama that Americans demand policies that produce clean and renewable energy sources. The Surfrider Foundation along with SkyTruth have been tracking the amount of oil spilled each day, visit our blog to learn more.
If enough people stand up, join hands, and say no to offshore oil drilling we can convince decision makers to craft smart laws and policies that wean us off fossil fuels and prevent another catastrophe like we are witnessing in the Gulf right now.
WHEN:Saturday, June 26, 2010 at 11:00a.m. Press conference begins at 11am. At noon participants will hold hands.
WHERE:Santa Monica Beach Pier--meet slightly north of the Pier on the sand.
WHY:To raise awareness about the devastating effects oil drilling has our coastal economies and environment; and to organize a national movement of concerned citizens who will steer America's energy policy away from its dependence on fossil fuels and in the direction of clean energy.
More Background: The Surfrider Foundation launched an action alert to President Obama asking him to restore moratoriums on offshore oil drilling. Sign it here. For decades our coasts were protected from offshore oil drilling. Unfortunately, circumstances changed in 2008 when President Bush lifted a White House moratorium on offshore drilling. Congress later followed suit by allowing a Federal ban on drilling to expire.
With the spill in the Gulf, it's clear our coastlines need as much protection as possible.
Join us on June 26th--no matter where you live. Go here to learn more about the "Hands Across the Sand" movement.