Obama blocks drilling in Arctic, Atlantic oceans
For Immediate Release: Contact Anthony Rogers-Wright (631) 402-7855; anthony@environmental-action.org
We are pleased but not satisfied with this important announcement. While there is much to celebrate with the protection of the Arctic and Atlantic oceans, the Gulf of Mexico was, again, omitted from consideration for protection. The Gulf South continues to be a premier sacrifice zone for the United States of America. This region, home to areas such as “Cancer Alley” and the first federally recognized climate migrants, the Biloxi-Chitimacha-Biloxi Tribe, has been more impacted by oil and gas drilling than the two regions Barack Obama protected today.
The Gulf South Region is also home to vulnerable low-wealth/communities of color who continue to suffer from abject environmental racism. If President Obama is serious about leaving an environmental legacy that is complete, he will call for the cessation of new leases and all drilling in the Gulf of Mexico immediately. Environmental Action stands with the Gulf South and excellent organizations standing with the people like Bold Louisiana, Gulf Restoration Network and Louisiana Bucket Brigade who will continue fighting until the deference offered to the Arctic, with its white polar bears, and the Atlantic is offered to the Gulf of Mexico.