Fracking is a process by which natural gas and oil are extracted from the earth. And though more than 90 local governments in Florida have privately banned the practice within their own borders, the state as a whole has continued to allow it. Now, as we charge head first into election season, 18-year-old activist Nick Famularo is standing up and making his voice heard. On August 4, 2018 at 11am, Nick will lead the March Against Fracking over the Bridge of Lions.
The march will begin on the east side of the bridge (the Anastasia Island side), make its way through downtown, and stop in front of City Hall for a rally with local officials. Mayor Nancy Shaver will speak briefly before the march begins, and when the group arrives in front of City Hall, Jen Lomberk of the Matanzas Riverkeeper will discuss how fracking threatens natural resources, wildlife, and public lands. Dr. Gary Bowers, a local physician, will then speak on the public health risks associated with fracking – including air pollution and groundwater contamination. V. Miller, a campaign organizer for ReThink Energy Florida, will follow with a statement on the legislative progress already made and the work that still needs to be done.
“Fracking is an issue that affects every Floridian,” says Nick. “This dangerous practice threatens our economy, environment, and public health while allowing the oil and gas industries to profit. Fracking wastes absurd amounts of freshwater, pollutes our air, contaminates groundwater, increases our reliance on fossil fuels, and weakens our vital tourism industry. Yet, the state legislature has failed to take any action against it. Floridians are tired of taking a backseat to the fossil fuel industry. It’s time for our elected officials to put people over polluters, and they can start by banning fracking in 2019.”
The March Against Fracking has had great traction through their social media accounts, and Nick is expecting more than 200 attendees on August 4.
“People across the country seem to believe that politics ends at the ballot box,” says Nick. “This could not be farther from the truth. Democracy is a year-round sport that requires active involvement and engagement. If you aren’t fighting for the issues that matter to you, then who else will? Call your elected officials, attend town halls, research the issues, organize others, and vote in every election. Never underestimate the power of a grassroots movement.”
Learn more about the St. Augustine March Against Fracking by visiting www.facebook.com/staugmarchagainstfracking.
To find more events in St. Augustine, visit our online calendar of events!
