Creation Covenant Alliance

Environmental Activist to Challenge Restraining Order with Cello Protest at Citibank’s NYC Headquarters

John Rozendaal, a 63-year-old climate activist and cellist, will defy a restraining order to play Bach’s “Suites for Cello” outside Citibank’s Manhattan headquarters as a climate protest, calling it “a plea for our future.”
Since June, the Summer of Heat has organized more than 18 protests against Wall Street for its role in fueling climate change. In recent weeks, law enforcement has responded to some activists with more serious charges. Credit: Keerti Gopal/Inside Climate News

On Thursday, 63-year-old John Mark Rozendaal, a grandfather, climate activist, and professional cellist, plans to defy a restraining order by performing Bach’s “Suites for Cello” in front of Citibank’s Manhattan headquarters. He calls the performance “a plea for our future.”

This action is part of the Summer of Heat on Wall Street, a civil disobedience campaign by climate activists opposing Citibank’s financing of companies involved in fossil fuel projects.

Activists claim that the bank’s security personnel and law enforcement are targeting the campaign’s leaders, citing multiple arrests and increasingly serious charges against founding members. Concerns have been raised about a potential pattern of intimidation and threats to freedom of speech.

Three weeks ago, Citi security worker James Flynn accused Rozendaal and Stop the Money Pipeline director Alec Connon of assault. The activists, who were using a PVC pipe to blockade the bank’s doors, deny any wrongdoing. A judge issued a restraining order for Flynn, a retired NYPD officer, against Connon and Rozendaal.

Connon stated, “No footage of this incident exists because it never happened.”

Citi, in a written statement, emphasized the right to protest but condemned actions like chaining to buildings or vandalism. The statement expressed appreciation for NYPD’s assistance in restoring access to their building.

NYPD Assistant Chief James McCarthy, overseeing numerous arrests at Citibank this year, denied any escalation in law enforcement’s response. McCarthy noted, “We arrest people, and nothing happens. It’s tiresome, but I don’t have any issues.”

The restraining order forbids Connon and Rozendaal from approaching Flynn’s person or associated locations for six months. Until their court date in September, the order stands.

Connon and Rozendaal risk criminal contempt charges, which could lead to severe penalties. Rozendaal, a pacifist and former Princeton University music professor, stated, “We’re going to Citibank to defy their intent to intimidate us.”

Jonathan Westin and Teddy Ogborn have also faced multiple arrests and serious charges, although the District Attorney’s office declined to prosecute. Connon suggested these actions might be a deliberate attempt by Citi to target visible organizers.

Joel Kupferman from the National Lawyers Guild cited a pattern of “increased harassment” from law enforcement against Summer of Heat demonstrators. Experts from the Center for International Environmental Law also voiced concerns, describing the restraining orders as an effort to suppress lawful demonstrations.

Connon believes the escalating charges indicate that the protests are making an impact. He urged activists to “crank up the pressure in the weeks ahead.”

Lead organizers have recently faced more serious charges, resulting in longer jail stays and potential lasting ramifications. Westin, arrested multiple times, refuted claims of resisting arrest or violent actions. Video evidence often exonerated him, leading to the DA’s office declining to prosecute.

The arrest of safety marshals like Westin, who liaise with police and ensure protest safety, raised particular concerns. Charles Slidders from the Center for International Environmental Law noted that the leadership of the protests seemed targeted to suppress free speech.

Ogborn was arrested despite attempting to leave the building as warned by NYPD. The DA’s office later declined to prosecute him as well.

Katie Redford from the Equation Campaign highlighted the implications of using police and legal systems against climate activists, emphasizing the need to protect democracy and the climate.

Lawyer Ron Kuby observed a pattern of unlawful arrests among climate activists, adding that the DA’s decisions not to prosecute often indicated baseless charges from the NYPD.

In an internal memo, Citi’s Ed Skyler acknowledged the protests’ disruptive nature but urged staff to avoid engaging with protesters. Incidents of aggression from frustrated Citi employees have been documented, further escalating tensions.

Despite meeting with Summer of Heat organizers, Citi executives have not agreed to the campaign’s demands, which include halting financing for fossil fuel projects and increasing support for renewable energy.

Globally, restrictions on protest rights are increasing. In the U.S., various states have passed laws limiting peaceful assembly. Internationally, environmental activists face severe crackdowns, as seen in Uganda, India, and the U.K.

Amnesty International recently declared its first prisoner of conscience in Canada, condemning the sentencing of Wet’suwet’en Chief Dsta’hyl for protesting against the Coastal GasLink pipeline.

Original Story at insideclimatenews.org

Trending News

Mississippi River Faces Persistent Saltwater Intrusion, Region Seeks Long-Term Solutions



For the third consecutive year, the Mississippi River is experiencing significant saltwater intrusion, prompting local communities and environmental experts to search for sustainable solutions. This recurring issue arises as the river’s flow decreases, allowing saltwater to move upstream and threaten drinking water supplies. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is actively involved in addressing this problem, employing temporary measures like saltwater barriers to mitigate the impact on affected areas.



Saltwater infiltration poses serious risks to public health and agriculture, as freshwater sources become compromised. The situation is exacerbated by prolonged periods of drought, which have reduced freshwater flow in the Mississippi River. According to the National Weather Service, drought conditions have worsened due to climate change, increasing the frequency and severity of saltwater intrusion events.



Local authorities are collaborating with federal agencies to explore permanent solutions. Among the proposed strategies are enhanced levee systems and improved water management techniques. The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is evaluating the feasibility of long-term infrastructure projects to prevent further saltwater encroachment. Additionally, community leaders are advocating for increased funding to support these initiatives and safeguard the region’s water resources.



The impact of saltwater intrusion extends beyond drinking water concerns, affecting local ecosystems and agricultural productivity. Farmers in the region have reported crop damage due to elevated salinity levels in irrigation water. The Natural Resources Conservation Service is working with farmers to implement adaptive practices, such as planting salt-tolerant crops and improving soil management techniques.



As the Mississippi River continues to face challenges from saltwater intrusion, stakeholders emphasize the importance of collaborative efforts and innovative solutions. The ongoing threat underscores the need for comprehensive planning and investment to protect one of America’s most vital waterways from the impacts of climate change and environmental stressors.

November 19, 2024



Environmental activists have raised concerns over the fossil fuel sector’s significant impact on COP29, the latest United Nations Climate Change Conference. Activists argue that the industry’s presence diverts focus from critical climate actions.



The conference, designed to promote global climate agreements, faces criticism for allowing fossil fuel companies to participate extensively. Environmental groups claim these companies undermine efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy sources.



According to Climate Action Network, fossil fuel representatives have increased their lobbying activities, aiming to weaken climate policies. These industries allegedly influence negotiations, leading to watered-down commitments that fail to address the urgency of climate change effectively.



Experts suggest that the influence of these companies stems from financial contributions and longstanding relationships with decision-makers. Critics argue that this affects the conference’s ability to enforce meaningful climate change regulations.



During the event, several protests highlighted the need for transparency and a stronger focus on sustainable energy solutions. Activists are calling for increased participation of renewable energy stakeholders in future conferences.



The controversy surrounding fossil fuel involvement at COP29 underscores the ongoing challenge of balancing industrial interests with the global imperative to combat climate change.



November 19, 2024