The Deadline for Enbridge to Stop using Line 5 is next week: Important Actions against the Enbridge Line 5 on May 12 & 13

In the coming days, there will be actions against the Enbridge Line 5 oil pipeline in both Lansing and in northern Michigan. 

Indigenous Water Protectors sent out a media release recently, that states:

Great Lakes Water Protectors are organizing peaceful gatherings at the Line 5 transfer sites of McGulpin Point Lighthouse at 500 Headlands Rd in Mackinaw City and at Point Labarbe at W706 Boulevard Dr. St. Ignace. Line 5 runs under the Straits of Mackinac, just west of the iconic Mackinaw Bridge.

In November of 2020, Governor Whitmer and DNR Director Eichinger, on behalf of the people of Michigan, revoked and terminated the 1953 Easement Permit allowing only 180 days of oil and natural gas liquids to flow thru pipeline 5 in the Straits of Mackinac. That date falls on May 12th, 2021. Times Up!

Water Protectors, Tribal Citizens and Grassroot Organizations are mobilizing to demonstrate support for Governor Whitmer and DNR Director Eichinger’s termination of the 1953 easement permit. Great Lakes Water Protector’s would like to invite the ALL Sovereign Tribes of the Great Lakes region and  ALL State Officials from the Executive Office, Governor’s Office, EGLE, State and Federal Congressional and Senate Delegations. Tell the citizens of this State how OUR REPRESENTATIVES plan to proceed with Enbridge’s unwillingness to uphold the decision of the State.

This peaceful call-to-action will begin early morning of May 12 at McGulpin Park near the south side transfer station, 1pm there will be a time to “Speak for the Water” and the day-long observance will conclude with a potluck feast at 4pm in the park.

If you are unable to join this gathering on May 12, there is another opportunity on May 13th in both Lansing and Mackinaw City. The group Oil & Water Don’t Mix is inviting people. May 13th is the official deadline for the Enbridge Corporation to stop using their Line 5 pipeline. 

The actions in Lansing and Mackinaw City are in essence an eviction notice for Enbridge, who will be illegally operating Line on May 13th. Enbridge has spent millions on advertising against Gov. Whitmer’s attempt to shut down Line 5, they have spent millions more on lobbyists and they are not attempting to get the government of Canada to defend their interests. Oii & Water Don’t Mix writes, “regular people are always required to obey the law or face consequences, but Enbridge thinks that their money buys special privileges, including the ability to violate state law with impunity. Well, we aren’t just going to sit by quietly while Enbridge keeps our Great Lakes at risk.”

If you are unable to join the action in Mackinaw City or Lansing on May 12 & 13, at least sign the petition that is demanding that President Biden support Gov. Whitmer’s call to decommission Line 5.

In addition, the Indigenous Water Protectors are asking for financial support for food while they camp out in Mackinaw City for a few days. If you are able to donate, send money here https://www.paypal.me/waterprotectors.