body
WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center works to instill a consciousness of values and to raise the moral questions involved in the issues of war, poverty, racism, and oppression. Members of the Thomas Merton Center are people from diverse philosophies and faiths who find common ground in the nonviolent struggle to bring about a more peaceful and just society; and,
WHEREAS, the Thomas Merton Center will be recognizing the collaborative and courageous efforts of Marcellus Shale Protest at this year's Thomas Merton Center New Persons Awards on April 26, 2011; and,
WHEREAS, Marcellus Shale Protest started as a small group of concerned citizens who successfully advocated for a Marcellus Shale drilling ban in the City of Pittsburgh and, through vigorous and sustained outreach, have been able to engage, inform, and empower other municipalities throughout the nation; and,
WHEREAS, through demonstrations, rallies, information distribution, and even songs (such as "No Fracking Way"), Marcellus Shale Protest has galvanized the attention of the public far and wide as to the great potential for harm from Marcellus Shale drilling to the people.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby recognize and commend the volunteers of Marcellus Shale Protest for their dedication to raising awareness about the public safety and health concerns of drilling in the Marcellus Shale and for their commitment and continued activism in effectuating drilling bans throughout the region; and,
title
BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED, that the Council of the City of Pittsburgh does hereby declare April 26, 2011, to be "MARCELLUS SHALE PROTEST DAY" in the City of Pittsburgh.