On Monday 7 October 2019, rebels from all over Aotearoa kicked off the International Rebellion by shutting down Wellington. They got up early to seize the Ministry of Business, Innovation & Employment, aka Ministry for oil, gas and minerals. They held it all day, blocking all entrances with glued hands and “climate crime scene” tape. Only exceptionally were a couple of employees let out, cheered at, and offered fresh fruit for the inconvenience.
Meanwhile a pink car without wheels but with undetachable activists, as well as a beautiful pink boat, ensured central city traffic was at a standstill by blocking two key intersections. Growing numbers of rebels started a moving blockade to keep the authorities on their toes. Avenues and streets were left chalked by adults and kids, banners were proudly deployed, and the Red Brigade itself started parading the streets in a festive atmosphere. It seemed that ordinary people had truly taken over, occupying wherever their message needed to be heard.
Around midday, hordes of friendly rebels swarmed climate criminals ANZ bank, asking them to divest from fossil fuels TODAY and leaving hundreds of post-it notes dotted around the branch. They held a long minute of silence for our sisters and brothers all around the world who are already feeling the impacts of climate change. Then, in an impressive showdown of musical rebellion, all rose again and powerfully spoke to the emergency we are in. A brave few glued themselves to the bank’s window and were celebrated by the crowd.
Later on, rebels from all walks of life sat down at a key intersection on Lampton Quay and sang with the crowd. Only when the last sitting rebel was taken by police did the crowd wrap up a huge day of action and seek a well-deserved rest. To all who joined or supported, but most of all to the 30 rebels who got arrested, thank you so much!
Truly, on this historic day of Monday 7th October 2019, kiwi rebels drew the line between making history and being history.
For more detail and pictures, see Stuff’s summary of the day.
