A few weeks back on April 29th, we had a Mind Petals Gathering at the Gramstand Cafe in the East Village. The night was focused primarily on plastic bag pollution, as I gave a discussion on the pollution / death factors of plastic bags.
We had some powerful discussion from everyone that attended. The night was definitely a success as those present gave feedback about pollution and shared their views on how to lower their pollution impact on the environment.
We also touched upon issues such as oil, biofuels, the role of capitalism on the environment, green businesses, spirituality, nature, and future plans of actions to help spread awareness and get people involved in our movement.
Last Saturday Mind Petaler, Corrina, and I set off to the Union Square section of the city to spread the awareness with flyers, one-on-one discussions with people, and, yes, me with my big-ass sign that said “PLASTIC BAGS KILL.”
We spent about 3 hours campaigning. I’d say that 7 out of 10 people were really receptive, amenable, and open to learning about the plastic bag issue. Some people even wanted to collaborate with us for future events / fund raisers. Others offered ideas, insights, and solutions into the issue of plastic bag pollution.
BUT… of course, there were those 3 out of 10 people who were absolutely pissed off about what we were doing. Some people even got physical!!! Can you believe that? We were yelled at. Cursed at. And berated from time to time. But, I couldn’t say I didn’t expect that.
When people come together and speak out passionately and, perhaps, aggressively against the status-quo… well, that rubs people the wrong way and they feel threatened. Trying to do everything in their power to keep you in the sheep herd, people will try and bring you back down to their ignorant level of bliss.
Our mission for the day was definitely accomplished, as many people declared that they would no longer use plastic bags and opt to purchase / use reusable bags. Those people made my day!
For those of you who want to get involved, please signup to our Action Alert newsletter.
lol – congratulations, you just entered the ‘weirdo’ club of New York…by parading around with that large, cardboard sign.
(80% of the passerbys think so, most likely)
but kudos to the cause.
Thanks Lawrence, much appreciated! You Rock
hey dave, there mindpetals goes being fantastic over and over again. awesome stuff bud. thank you for making us aware.
next step on our part: action
Hey Vic,
Thanks for the support, brother! Glad to be spreading the awareness. Yup, action is always the next step!!
Good Luck in your fight against the plastic bag! Capitalism never was and never will be good for the environment – the whole concept is contrary to nature. Nature never takes a profit, remember, Nature only ever gives, abundantly!
We humans should base our society on that natural philosophy instead, for true success!
Plastic bags can easily be completely eliminated by the simple process of everyone taking purpose built durable shopping bags everywhere with them. I don’t remember plastic bags in the seventies, and we did a lot of shopping then!
Great Job as always, my friend!!!
We just successfully de-plastic-bagged our home this week. reusing all we had left over until there were none. I have to say, it is a challenge. but it is worth it. thanks for the inspiration.
Keep rockin!
Gina
WOW, that’s AMAZING Gina! So happy to hear that you are plastic bag free! Please spread the word and inspire others with your actions. Thanks for making a difference
