On little sleep, Global Network board member MacGregor Eddy has arrived on Jeju Island and is already in the fray. Construction workers have moved out into the ocean to begin the process of dredging the sea bottom in order to make it possible for the big U.S. warships (aircraft carriers and Aegis destroyers) to visit the port. The endangered soft coral reefs will surely be destroyed.
It's time to call the Korean embassy in your country again. Make two points: Stop the dredging of the sea bed and release Sung-Hee Choi from jail now (she goes on trial June 10). In the U.S. please call 718-726-8688 .
MacGregor reports:
I am stunned to be here. Please spread the word. These brave Koreans are stopping the construction. There is no news media here except local.
Protesters went in a inflatable boat to ask the ship not to destroy the soft coral reef. They are being arrested, and possibly they were beaten, it is hard to see. More members are going out in boats. Greenpeace has Seoul office, but will not help, not even to publicize what is happening. Can Helen or someone talk to them right away?
People are cheerful and determined. The crew of the work boat did rough up the peaceful protesters, but no injuries. Dr Song is the hero. He made an agreement with the police and crew. No arrests today. No work on the construction of base and destruction of reef today.
Greenpeace was on Jeju Island last month. They were here to protect tuna. They refused to address the Naval base issue. What happened to The Rainbow Warrior of the past?
Here on the shore it is well organized and peaceful, there are groups of people chanting on the platform. They gave me a cup of tea and I gave messages of support.
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