Bikes not Pipes —May 2 Nelson Rides for a Pipeline Free BC
By Eva Brownstein
“The answer is in our action,” stated Bikes not Pipes organizer Margaret Anne Murphy.
Murphy, a 27-year-old Peace Studies student at Selkirk College, is one of the local volunteers organizing the May 2nd Critical Mass Bike Ride to inspire increased voter turn out for the upcoming Federal Elections.
“We want people to rally together under the banner of enjoyment, with the ultimate goal being to change the government for a clean energy future,” added co-organizer Scott Martens, 26.
Both Murphy and Martens are members of local group “Kootenays for a pipeline-free BC“, an advocacy group that raises awareness about the dangers of oil pipeline development and other environmental threats.
“I’d like to see more people becoming aware that Stephen Harper is turning Canada into a climate criminal,” said Martens.
“Due to federal budget cuts over 2000 scientists have lost their jobs since 2008. This greatly reduces the ability of our country to monitor industrial pollution and oil spills as well as the greater effects of climate change.”
“Our objective is very simple,” added fellow organizer Keith Wiley, 60. “Get rid of the Harper Government”.
Last year the group organized their first Critical Mass Bike Rally to protest the Enbridge Pipeline, and over one hundred Nelsonites joined the ride. Murphy hopes this year will see even more.
“Riding your bike is an every day action we can take”, said Murphy of the people powered rally.
“We can put a dent in the oil industry by not participating in it”.
Concerned citizens, or simply those wanting to meeting new friends and join the family-friendly fun, will meet at the Civic Theatre at noon on Saturday (May 2.)
The ride will culminate at 1 p.m. in Lakeside Park, where local politicians, youth, and members of the Sinixt Nation will address the crowd. After, the group will divide into break out groups to organize further action around climate change and the upcoming election.
Riders are encouraged to bring costumes, banners, noise-makers, and any foot powered vehicle – bikes, skateboards, roller blades and uni-cycles welcome.
