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We are Rainforest Action Network HOUSTON! www.ran.org WE are just getting out website going. There will be more to come. Invite us to be your friend for more info. on joining up with us for direct action and informing the public on both local and global issues. ............................................................ ............................................................ . NO NEW COAL!!! Coal-fired power plants are the planet's largest, dirtiest source of electricity and its top source of climate-changing carbon emissions. Yet, despite the efforts of businesses and governments around the world who are trying to reduce CO2 emissions, coal power plants are experiencing a resurgence. More than 150 new coal plants are in various stages of development across the U.S. at a price tag of $125 billion.Coal is also a leading cause of poor air quality and respiratory illnesses like asthma. Before this polluting technology is locked in for the next 50 years, Rainforest Action Network is calling for a moratorium on the construction of new coal-fired power plants.By investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources such as solar and wind power, we can meet our energy needs, grow the economy, create jobs, improve public health and air quality, and stop global warming. RAN is demanding that Wall Street's top banks stop funding new coal development and instead enact comprehensive financial policies that address climate change...................................................... ............................................................ ........ Rainforest Action Network’s Anti-Oppression Principles January 11, 2007Rainforest Action Network (RAN) is working towards ensuring that our words and actions support the inherent value and dignity of everyone. We view this as an on-going process of becoming more accountable to our allies, to our supporters, and to our own beliefs. We are committed to:Working with the perspective that social, economic and environmental issues are interconnected and interdependent. Understanding and learning about systems of oppression and challenging the power structures which support those systems and create injustices. Examining the resources and privileges we have and utilizing them thoughtfully, respectfully, honestly and transparently. Working with the principles of participatory democracy in our meetings and actions and recognizing that all people should have equal access to decision-making processes. Taking responsibility for equalizing power and creating a space where all are encouraged to actively engage, listen, speak and act with respect. Learning about the histories and struggles of impacted communities and other groups as told by them. Working in solidarity with communities directly impacted by corporate power. Prioritizing and building our relationships with impacted communities and a broad base of constituents across social, economic and political boundaries. Becoming better allies by helping to build broad-based movements for environmental, social, and economic justice. Listening to, learning from and amplifying the voices of our allies. Supporting the Principles of Environmental Justice adopted by the Delegates to the First National People of Color Environmental Leadership Summit (1991). We, the staff, activists, and volunteers of RAN, commit ourselves to working together to embody the above-stated values. If you share these principles, we invite you to join us in fulfilling them........................................................ ............................................................ . Rainforest Action Network's Statement on Non-violence August 17, 2007Rainforest Action Network (RAN) does not support or condone violence in any form. We believe that peaceful protest and civil disobedience are powerful forces for change in a democratic society, and we defend the rights of individuals and organizations to practice them.RAN deplores the Bush administration-backed efforts that, under the guise of anti-terrorism, attempt to squelch public dissent and curtail our civil liberties by criminalizing our constitutional right to peaceful protest. The government’s use of taxpayer dollars to spy on environmental and social justice groups is fiscally and morally irresponsible and sets a frightening precedent for all individuals wishing to effect social change.