Miranda Gibson

Miranda Gibson

Image by The Observer Tree

Global connection as Australian tree-dweller marks one year since setting foot on the groundobservertree2011@gmail.com.

On December 14th 2012 Australian environmentalist Miranda Gibson will mark one year since stepping foot on the ground.

“When I climbed this tree I vowed to remain here until the forest was protected. I had no idea how long I would have to stay up here. Sadly, Tasmania's forests remain under threat from industrial scale logging and so my action is set to continue.” said Ms Gibson.

“It has been a challenging year, but also incredible to experience first hand the values of these forests, including witnessing endangered wedge tailed eagles soaring above me and enjoying the forest snow fall of winter” said Ms Gibson.

The 31 year old high school teacher has been living on a small platform suspended at the top of the tree. Miranda's action, known as the Observer Tree, has gained international attention. Using solar power Gibson has connected with people around the globe, through her blog www.observertree.org.

Thousands are expected to take part in a global cyber event. A live video feed will broadcast Miranda to the world, with participants able to send in comments and questions. The event will also include international guest speakers including Julia Butterfly Hill, Derrick Jensen and campaigners from the Unist'ot'en Camp.

Julia Butterfly Hill who spent two years at the top of a tree in California and holds the world record for longest tree sit, has spoken out in support of Ms Gibson. "Miranda Gibson is taking a powerful stand not only on behalf of Tasmania's forests, but also on behalf of the millions of people all over the world who know and understand that it is absolutely vital that we protect them. We stand in solidarity with and support of her courageous efforts."

"Having spent over two years in an ancient redwood tree in Northern California in the United States to protect it and call attention to the plight of our old growth forests, I understand first hand what an incredible sacrifice Miranda is making in her commitment.” said Ms Hill.

A message of support also comes from the Unist'ot'en Camp: "People from all over Mother Earth will immediately need to stand together in defence of the life systems which many of us have become disconnected to yet 100% still depend on."

"If each of us decide to make the time to, and in our own way, quietly connect to the ecosystems in our different environments, we should quickly find the reasons to unite with our Indigenous neighbours and protect what is left. Solidarity from us at the Unist'ot'en Camp in North Central BC, Canada!"

Globally renowned author Derrick Jensen said "Thank you, Miranda, for what you are doing. Thank you for who you are that would cause you to act. You are an inspiration to me and to so many others. An inspiration we desperately need."

"The future for me and for these forests hangs in the balance, with ongoing uncertainty about how long it will be before these world class forests are protected. Until then, I will continue my commitment to stay in this tree" said Ms Gibson.

 

 

blog comments powered by Disqus