Burnaby Mountain Protestors Share Stories in Pictures

New website highlights the next wave of emotion and action in the growing movement to stop tar sands pipelines across Canada

BURNABY, BC, Dec. 8, 2014 /CNW/ - Inspired by the diversity and determination of those who participated in the Burnaby Mountain protests against the Kinder Morgan pipeline, a new website shares their photos and stories and allows others to do the same in support of a movement that continues to grow and gain momentum.

Styled after the wildly popular viral hit website Humans of New York, www.peopleofburnabymountain.com which launched December 5th, captures the many faces of the resistance on Burnaby Mountain. Protestors including local residents, first nations, environmentalists, youth, prominent Canadians and many others, have been peacefully protesting against the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline project since early November.

More than 100 citizens were arrested during the protests, however most charges have now been dismissed and a judge has refused to extend an injunction allowing the company to continue survey work on the mountain.

"Hundreds of Canadians from all walks of life came together to go up against Kinder Morgan, a multibillion dollar American oil giant, building a dangerous pipeline through their community," said Ivana Djordjevic, one of the project's creators.  "The diversity of their voices, commitment to their cause and sheer determination inspired this photography project." Djordjevic is a photographer and principal of Ease Creative, who captures moments of connection to shine a light on social issues and build strong and mindful communities.

Those who could not join the protestors in person are able to upload their own photos and stories onto the website and stand with the People of Burnaby Mountain.

From the site:

"I'm a mother and grandmother. I'm here because our federal government has stripped away our environmental protections. I'm here for my children and grandchildren - I want them to see the beauty of this land." 

-       Della Glendenning is a 74 year old grandmother who was the 74th person to be arrested on Burnaby Mountain

"This war is a consequence of the Harper Government… in a very clumsy and aggressive way, pitting dirty oil against clean water, provoking a conflict between the environment and the economy. I stand on the side of clean water. I stand on the side of a clean healthy environment. And I'm here because I'm gravely concerned about the future wellbeing of not only my grandchildren - but all of our grandchildren's grandchildren."

-       Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, President of the Union of BC Indian Chiefs 

 "20 years ago we stood on the road in Clayoquot Sound and sparked a national debate that changed the way forestry was done. Standing on the road here today on Burnaby Mountain we will ensure our governments stop protecting polluters and start protecting people."

-       Karen Mahon  and other "Heroes of Clayoquot Sound" who were all arrested  

SOURCE: People of Burnaby Mountain

Media Contact: Ivana Djordjevic, [email protected]