Tree-sits continue in Berkeley

Yesterday (January 11, 2007) was a court hearing on the Oaks. Basically things continued as they are with the university not allowed to cut any trees now. The university petitioned to cut a redwood and fence the area but were denied.

Their reaction came at 6:00 a.m. when 20-30 UC police raided the grove. A nice large tent had been set up with a kitchen and storage area. The police told everyone to get their stuff and leave. There were six supporters on the ground. One pulled out a contact list and began to call other supporters. The police yanked it out of his hand. he complained but could only grab his stuff and head to the sidewalk. Two front loaders and two large trucks appeared. The six people grabbed what they could and headed to the sidewalk. The police loaded the tarps, food, cooking supplies, blankets, guitar, and many personal belongings and even fallen tree brancher and put them in the buckets of the frontloaders. These dumped their contents in the trucks and eventually the police left with the stuff.

The six tree-sits continue. With the police gone the supporters have moved back. There were no arrests or citations. Please bring food or supplies to the trees if you can.

March at 2:00 to the UC Chancelars office. People are now gathering at the oaks. please come on up to show solidarity or join the march today.