INTRODUCTION
the anti-fracking movement celebrated an incredible victory — after years of relentless organizing, we won a ban on fracking in all of New York state. At the time, it was called an “unwinnable fight.” We were told the best we could hope for were regula- tions. But to protect our families and our planet, we knew we needed to ban fracking entirely. Thousands of New Yorkers from across the state — farmers, physicians, students, and so many more — joined the movement in a years-long, uphill battle. Despite the naysayers and the go- liaths of the fossil fuel industry, we grew into a powerful move- ment that demanded and won the change we needed. This win didn’t just protect New Yorkers from fracking — it changed the conversation nationwide . It showed what people power can do, and, though we still have much more work ahead, it has shaped the environmental and climate movements in the years since. To commemorate the 10th anniversary, we’re looking back at how a coalition of grassroots organizers and everyday people won this “unwinnable” fight, and the lessons we’ve taken from it in New York and beyond. 10 Years Ago,
Left and bottom photos by Simon Russell Photography; Right photo by Susan Wozny
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People Power vs. Fracking 4
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