A Nevada Tribal Ranger from the Pyramid Lake Paiute Tribal Police Department took matters into his own hands when confronted with an Extinction Rebellion protest that was causing a miles-long backup on a highway. The incident, captured on video, has sparked controversy and ignited debates about the appropriate response to climate protests.
The Extinction Rebellion Protest
The Extinction Rebellion protest that unfolded in Nevada aimed to draw attention to what the activists perceived as capitalism’s failure to address the ecological breakdown caused by climate change. The protesters, affiliated with the global environmental movement, took to the streets to disrupt traffic flowing into the Burning Man festival. Their objective was to raise awareness about the urgent need for action on climate change, using civil disobedience as a means to achieve their goals.
The Ranger’s Bold Response
As the Extinction Rebellion protesters blocked the highway, the Nevada Tribal Ranger, undeterred by their presence, decided to take matters into his own hands. In a daring move captured on video, the ranger plowed through the protest, clearing the way for the stranded motorists. The protesters could be heard shouting, “We’re non-violent,” as the ranger continued on his path.
The video quickly gained traction on social media, with many applauding the ranger’s decisive actions. Ian Miles Cheong, a prominent figure on Twitter, tweeted, “This is how the police deal with climate protesters in Nevada. That’s how you do it.” The tweet accompanied the video, further fueling the already polarizing discussion surrounding the incident.
This is how the police deal with climate protesters in Nevada. That’s how you do it. pic.twitter.com/y8Qy1nkG7H
— Ian Miles Cheong (@stillgray) August 28, 2023
The Arrests and Trespassing Charges
After plowing through the protest, the ranger circled back and exited his vehicle with his gun drawn. He proceeded to apprehend several protesters, who were later arrested for trespassing on tribal land. The swift response and use of force by the ranger raised questions about the appropriate level of enforcement when dealing with peaceful protests.
Extinction Rebellion’s Mission
Extinction Rebellion, the organization behind the protest, has long been advocating for urgent action on climate change. They argue that capitalism, with its focus on profit and economic growth, has failed to address the ecological crisis. By organizing disruptive protests and acts of civil disobedience, they aim to raise awareness and force governments and corporations to take immediate action to combat climate change.
Criticism and Controversy
While the ranger’s actions were praised by some as a necessary response to the disruption caused by the protesters, others criticized the use of force and questioned whether it was proportional to the situation. The incident sparked a heated debate on social media, with opinions divided between those who believed the ranger’s actions were justified and those who felt they were excessive.
I don't think this case is going to end how you think … 👨‍⚖️LAWYER’S TAKE 👉 Under the US Constitution, the Burning Man protestors have a free speech right to protest. Police, or in this case, Nevada Rangers can’t mess with this solemn right. That is, unless the protest… pic.twitter.com/AuZplrayxj
— Ian Corzine (@iancorzine) August 28, 2023
The Role of Tribal Land
One aspect that adds complexity to the situation is the fact that the protest took place on tribal land. Tribal lands are under the jurisdiction of Native American tribes and are subject to their laws and regulations. Trespassing on tribal land is a serious offense and can lead to legal consequences. The involvement of the Nevada Tribal Ranger in the incident highlights the unique jurisdictional issues that can arise in such situations.
Blocking the road to the Burning Man Festival in Nevada likely has more negative consequences than positive for both Extinction Rebellion and the attendees of the festival. The Burning Man Festival is a significant event that attracts thousands of visitors from around the world, many of whom may not be aware of or involved in the climate change movement. Blocking access could generate resentment and hostility towards Extinction Rebellion, undermining their cause rather than promoting it. It’s this kind of stunt that gives peaceful protesters a bad name.