Langara students among large crowd for Vancouver’s rally against Enbridge

Thousands flocked to Science World on Saturday afternoon for another protest against the proposed Enbridge pipeline, the latest in a string of public gatherings opposing it.

The event was one of many similar protests throughout Canada, collectively making up an environmental awareness day of sorts across the country. Attendance for the rally was impressive to say the least, with a crowd estimated to be in the thousands.

Among those choosing to make it down to False Creek despite the cold, dreary weather for the event were local environmental activists, First Nations representatives, and even some politicians, as Vision Vancouver Coun. Andrea Reimer made an appearance to offer her support on behalf of Mayor Gregor Robertson and his staff.

Also among the gatherers were Ben Yeung and Connor Hellemond – both general studies students at Langara College – who offered their take on the day’s proceedings.

“It’s just really great to see this many people out here,” said Yeung. “It’s up to us to make our voices heard and to be the itch [Enbridge] can’t scratch.”

Hellemond said this was the first rally, protest or march he’d ever attended, and that he was glad he did so.

“It’s important,” said Hellemond, adding that he believes the potential pipeline linking British Columbia and Alberta “could easily backfire.”

As expected, the entirety of the protest was peaceful and law-abiding, although police officers were visible nearby – choosing to be safe rather than sorry.

Although the pipeline is far from being anywhere close to a done deal, progress was assumed to have been made earlier this month during a meeting between Premiers Christy Clark and Alison Redford, where oil export was the main topic of discussion.

Opponents of the pipeline plan set out to make their voices heard once again, and judging by the magnitude of this latest rally, Enbridge supporters will be hard-pressed to have an easy fight on their hands.

Reported by Quinn Mell-Cobb