Day of Action For Rivers: A Retrospective
A brief retrospective to take us forward and inspire more powerful actions in 2011.
When March 14 was named the International Day of Action For Rivers at the First International Meeting of People Affected by Dams, it was dedicated as such not only to celebrate rivers and resist destructive projects, but to "symbolize the growing unity of the movement." In 13 years, the International Day of Action For Rivers has spanned 27 countries, and seen more than 900 actions. Over the years it has become:
A day of celebration.
1999, groups in Argentina organized a water sports and fishing festival on the Parana River to celebrate their victory against the Parana Medio Dam.
A day of education.
2009, activists held a rally at the University of Costa Rica, to educate students and motivate them to be active in protecting rivers and natural resources. Hundreds of students gathered in the plaza to form the phrase "Pacuare Libre." (Free the Pacuare River)
A day of demonstration and protest.
2008 in Bangladesh, Sylhet Poribesh Andolon (SYPA) organized a human chain at the bank of the Surma River in protest of the Tipaimukh Dam.
A day to demand reparations.
1998, thousands of people in Brazil camped out to demand reparations for people resettled for the Itaparica Dam.
A day to promote alternatives.
2006, in India groups held a program highlighting pollution caused by the effects of big dams, disastrous fishing policies and technological modernization. The event promoted alternatives for harnessing energy and rational consumption to prevent the destruction of this natural resource.
Above all it is a day of global strength and as recognized in 1997, a day that continues to show our growing unity as a movement.
What does the International Day of Action For Rivers mean to you?
Please share your thoughts, and continue to tell us about your ideas for March 14, 2011.
- Send an email with your plans - no matter however developed they are - to dayofaction@internationalrivers.org
- RSVP and post your action ideas on Facebook.
- Send us pictures, videos and accounts of your actions after March 14.
