Earth First! Gathering

Well, what can we say ... around a 100 of some of the most beautiful and dedicated people in the Earth First movement gathered near Swindon over Easter weekend to discuss where we’re going, what we’ve been up to and how to strengthen radical, grassroots environmentalism. Workshops were held, but most of the discussion was done around camp fires, during football matches or just lying in the sun!

McDonalds kindly provided the site for action training, which resulted in the central McDonald's in Swindon being closed down. Costing McDonald’s £5000 and a drive through was also occupied.

A selection of issues were raised at the gathering, far too many to report here. Some of the main ones are discussed below (note, this is a personal opinion of the gathering only).

Leeds EF! suggested creating regional networking groups, but no other groups volunteered to take this on. Regional networking needs to be strengthened although this appears to be occurring naturally to some extent. Sabotage was also discussed. The opinions were diverse, but with the CJA now potentially threatening 3 month jail sentences for peacefully sitting on a digger the appeal of sabotage will obviously increase.

The reality of “no compromise in defence of the earth” was raised as some groups trying to alter local government policy may be involved in some form of compromise. It was felt that Earth First! should include more pro-active activities, meaning setting our own agenda, as well as opposing the states. The land reform movement, Critical Mass and Reclaim the Streets being examples of campaigns asking for positive change. We need space and land to create caring, low impact communities, especially now that many people have glimpsed their potential during long term campaigns. Some felt we should record our own history by marking particular dates, creating photographic documents etc.

Thanks go to the farmer who lent us his land, to those who helped organise it and to “Close to the Edge” for some excellent catering. The next gathering will be late September in Lancashire. Contact Merseyside EF! with offers of help, workshop ideas etc. 0151 794 4167