Climate Camp

Two points that have been raised about Climate Camp, now taking place in our backyard here in Blackheath, UK, shouldn't go unchallenged. So, challenge them I will.

First, some on the Beeb and in less savoury media outlets have been suggesting that these young climate warriors are flouting the law with their direct action (taking over the heath!) and because they may well be trained in other direct actions while so encamped. But as lawyers on the television show I watched the other day made it clear much of what is encouraged isn't illegal at all. There is also the question of the greater good. And a jury has ruled on that one, has it not? Climate Change is a real threat to the planet! It is time for extraordinary action. Hello, Gordon, are you listening? If life were fair and the rules of engagement were actually just, then perhaps there might be an argument for all of us just staying home and emailing our Parliamentarians nice polite letters. Many of us do this too. But the sad reality is that the great polluters continue unscathed while those with access to the powerbrokers at the table in Copenhagen will be smiling gents in pinstripe suits supplied by the megacorps, who are killing the planet. It is the representatives of these polluters who have the ears of our wimpering little pols and they are the ones too who support the political parties the weakkneed politicians represent. Tell me now, who is it that is really breaking the rules on climate? Not the friendly, tired-out campers in Blackheath just now!

The other suggestion these days in the Guardian (Peter Beaumont, who does good stuff, mostly) and elsewhere is that Climate Camp has become more about Climate Camp than it is about Climate Change. Well, maybe. But perhaps we can understand a bit their insistence on making sure Climate Camp survives. Perhaps there is a bit of paranoia when dealing with a mostly rabid corporatist media and the nasty police with their gestapo-like tactics when it comes to dealing with anything with a hint of irreverent free speech or action. If Beaumont makes a point about it being more about Climate Camp than it is about Climate Change, I say, look at who actually made it so.

For now.

Blackheath Canuck

ps This newcomer to the UK is still discovering the best literature around. Just finished Paradise by A. L. Kennedy. Very powerful look into the heart and soul of an alcoholic. Must read. Ask your library.