I wanted to let you know that on Monday night, July 8 at 9 pm, the excellent documentary “Gasland II” will premiere on HBO and at various locations around NYC. I saw this sequel to the first Gasland at the Tribeca Film Festival this year, and it is a must-see. It is especially relevant for New Yorkers, as right now this State is at a crossroads – will Governor Cuomo allow the controversial vertical gas drilling or “fracking” in NY, or will he maintain the current moratorium? As many of you know, the last several years I have spent much of my available time volunteering with local environmental and advocacy groups seeking to get fracking banned in NY. I feel so strongly about this issue, I have attended protests in NYC, as well as at the Capital in Albany. I am relieved that the elected officials who represent my NYC district are also opposed to fracking in NY, due to the significant risks of chemical and methane contamination to the water, air and land (and agriculture). However, as Gasland II depicts, the lobbying influence of the gas industry is very strong due to its’ enormous financial resources. Promoting renewable energy sources and keeping NY free from fracking will continue to be an uphill and lengthy battle. It is imperative that we all become informed about this critical issue facing not just New York, but also the whole country (and even other countries). Because many drill sites are set up on or near farmlands, there are concerns that livestock and agriculture contaminated by chemicals and methane are getting into our food supply. Thus, I believe that being involved with this environmental issue and advocating for safer and cleaner energy policies is in alignment with the yogic ethical principles of non-violence and truthfulness. It is a way to take our yoga practices off the mat and apply them in the “real” world. If you would like to attend a Gasland II viewing and reception on Monday night that my block association is co-sponsoring with Mothers for Sustainable Energy and others, please see the attached flyer. The event will be held at the New York Society for Ethical Culture (doors open at 7 pm), and rsvps to info@thenothersproject.org are required. Greek restaurant Loi is catering the event, and there will be an open wine bar. I hope to see you there!
