In 2015, 185 people were killed for defending their homelands and standing up for their rights to clean air and water. One of these people was Berta Cáceres, an environmental activist from Honduras. Berta fought bravely against illegal logging, U.S. military bases on indigenous land, and large dams that would destroy the local community’s access to safe water and food. Berta is just one example of activists all around teh world that are hoping to protect wild lands, important ecosystems, and their community’s way of life. Whether it be the fossil fuel industry or agribusiness - native habitats are constantly at threat. Unfortunately, the people trying to defend them are now at threat, too.
Environmental activists are being killed at shocking rates in an attempt to silence their voice. Many of these murders are being brushed aside, and world leaders are ignoring them. The United Nations is one of the most powerful organizations in the world, and has a duty to focus on the environment and human rights. It is time for the Secretary-General to denounce these unjust murders.
Over 70 million acres of rainforest are lost every day, and 2015 was the hottest year on record. In order to protect our planet and keep it safe for generations to come, we must make sure those who speak out are safe. We need brave people around the world to stand up for their rights to land, water, air, and climate justice more than ever. Sign this petition to demand that Ban Ki Moon address the horrific killings of environmentalists around the world and denounce it at the UN.
