I have been to some other climate camps in the Rhineland and in the Lausitz (Lusatia) before. This must be my fourth or fifth time. And each and every time I experience the magic of it all.
Photos: Klimacamp im Rheinland
In the beginning the camp starts off quite small. A few people build it up and make sure that everyone will have a comfortable place to stay, in the middle of fields or meadows provided by friendly local farmers. Then the program starts, and people start to gather for workshops, discussions and practical tasks. They get to know and learn from each other.
And then, like it did yesterday afternoon, something very special happens.
The entire camp transforms and starts preparing for the actions. There are legal and action trainings. People find themselves affinity groups (a group of 6 – 10 people) and buddies (a trusted person that will stand by your side) to join the action with. Together they will go through thick and thin during Ende Gelände or Kohle erSETZEN (rePLACE Coal) actions.
A magical atmosphere surrounds us — the buzzing and murmurs that start spreading across the camp, an almost tangible energy that encompasses every single person there.
This energy is there because thousands of people are determined to make something big happen together. To take a strong stance against the destruction of our climate and the exploitation of nature. They have decided to take part in the Red Lines protest or to disobey the law and participate in the Kohle erSETZEN, Ende Gelände and other actions. This determination, this courage, this solidarity with those already suffering from the consequences of coal mining and climate change, this trust that those at the camp and all those supporting from elsewhere are showing – that is the magic.
If you are not at the camp this year, I invite you to still be part of this moment and share in this atmosphere. Follow the Klimacamp and Ende Gelände on Facebook. Share photos and videos from the Red Lines demo and rePLACE COAL/Kohle erSETZEN. Tell your loved ones what is happening in the Rhineland these days.
In this spirit of trust and determination, let’s keep it in the ground.
#Endegelaende #Kohleersetzen #Betheredline #Klimacamp
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