Silent Peace Walk in Protest of Pollution
As the ongoing legal battle continues between the Department of Environmental Protection and Erie Coke, a group of citizens are once again bringing the issue to the forefront.
At the East Avenue boat launch, dozens of citizens met with the Benedictines for Peace to participate in a silent peace walk.
The group walked past Erie Coke and back down to the dock, where they held a short ceremony.
After years of environmental violations, the plant is currently at the center of a legal battle, with the DEP attempting to have it shut down.
Those who participated in the walk, say the silent reflection is aimed at raising awareness of the ongoing dispute.
"I hope that they stop polluting,” said Anne McCarthy of the Benedictines for Peace. “If it's not possible for them to stop polluting, then I hope the DEP and the courts do what they are meant to do, which is protect us from pollution."
A judge recently ruled that Erie Coke is allowed to stay open, while the company attempts to save its operating permit.