Faith Leaders Rally for Protection of the Okefenokee
FOLKSTON, Ga. — Representatives from Jewish, Catholic, and Protestant faith communities across Georgia gathered at the Okefenokee Swamp Wednesday, Dec. 6 for a prayer vigil urging lawmakers to enact House-Bill 71, “The Okefenokee Protection Act," as part of their upcoming legislative session.
The swamp is presently under threat from Twin Pines Minerals, LLC, which is seeking permits to operate heavy mineral sand mines on Trail Ridge near the swamp. Many scientists note that mining, like that proposed by Twin Pines, would significantly damage the swamp and surrounding communities. Advocates say it will take all Georgians to ensure the protection of the swamp for future generations.
“Faith leaders and communities they represent are especially vital to protecting sacred spaces in Georgia, like the Okefenokee,” says Beth Remmes, Coastal Outreach and Resiliency Coordinator for Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL). “When clergy speak about the call to care for our common home, people listen!”
The vigil was organized by GIPL and led by area native, Rev. Antwon Nixon, pastor at Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in Folkston. Faith leaders who gathered signed a letter to Governor Kemp and Speaker Burns asking for the denial of the Twin Pines permits and the passage of the Okefenokee Protection Act. The group is asking additional faith leaders around the state to join in signing the letter at gipl.org/action.
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Georgia Interfaith Power and Light (GIPL) is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization that works across the state to mobilize people of faith toward environmental action. As part of the national Interfaith Power and Light movement, GIPL sees its response to global climate change, resource depletion, environmental injustice, and pollution as an extension of faith.
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