As the fracking wing of the energy industrial complex continues its assault on Appalachia and creeps its way into our foothills, citizens are mobilizing. On June, 26th, 2012, Athens County landowner Madeline ffitch blockaded the frack waste injection well on Ladd Ridge Rd in Athens County. Word of Madeline’s resistance spread quickly and soon citizens had rallied as close to the injection site as police would allow, supporting her actions and talking with neighbors who also voiced their support.
After Madeline was arrested, supporters continued to gather as we awaited her release. During her arraignment weeks later where Athens County Prosecutor, Keller Blackburn presented the felony charge of Inducing Panic, the community again showed its support as citizens rallied both inside and outside the courthouse. The local papers have also been filled with supportive letters from community members enthusiastically voicing their opposition to the unsafe practices associated with fracking, and their support of Madeline’s action.
It is with this enthusiasm that Appalachia Resist! is born. We stand in solidarity with others who act to resist the poisoning and exploitation of Appalachia. We aim to erase the concept of “environmental sacrifice zones”. We will participate in the creation of vibrant, resilient communities that are ecologically and economically sustainable, and that are able to advocate for their rights to clean air and water.
No longer will we simply plead with the state to protect us from environmental and health hazards which the energy mega-industry thrusts upon us. At present, our state agencies are in the pocket of the oil and gas industry, and are not protecting Ohio citizens. We stand in solidarity with Madeline ffitch and will support her case. In addition, we will work with our community to build a strong resistance to the domination of the oil and gas industry. The fracking industry places profits before all else, and uses advertising, cultural institutions, and even our government to persuade us that their choice is the only choice:
Poverty or Poison?
WE CHOOSE NEITHER: APPALACHIA RESIST!
