4.17.17 – Santa Barbara Protests Zinke, Reagan Ranch Center, State Street, Santa Barbara

On Monday evening, April 17, peaceful protestors greeted Trump’s Secretary of Interior, Ryan Zinke, who spoke in support of Executive Order 19, which would allow oil drilling in our national parks. He also referred to a coming Executive Order that will open offshore drilling as well. With only three day’s notice, protesters numbered over 350.  About a dozen counter protesters were present, but there was no violence or verbal disrespect between the groups. The counter protesters believe oil spills are the price to be paid for “energy independence.” However, the U.S. is all but 5% energy independent now; Trump’s stated goal is “energy dominance”. Oil sourced locally will be sold on the global market to profit oil billionaires.