Take action now: Tell Congress to speak out against the destruction of the Oura Bay!

Despite legal fights and local opposition, dumping into the Oura Bay is already occurring, and it’s already causing harmful impacts. Endangered dugongs previously seen in the Bay have not been spotted since the site's construction commenced.

But this isn’t just about the environmental impacts -- it’s also about the democratic will of the Okinawan people. Twice recently they’ve elected governors who called for the removal of the U.S. Marine base.

In short, this base is an attack on Japanese democracy, the Okinawan people, and the local environment. But Members of Congress will only listen if they feel pressure from their constituents like you.

Comments

Dear Senator/Representative:

I urge you to speak out against the construction of a new U.S. military base in Okinawa, Japan. The people of Okinawa overwhelmingly oppose this environmentally disastrous project. Twice recently they have elected governors who called for the removal of the U.S. Marine base. In August, 70,000 rallied against the base, which is now the site of regular demonstrations and blockades. Construction also threatens a small Indigenous village.

This U.S. military base will devastate the Oura Bay. Millions of tons of soil and sand will be dumped into the Bay, which contains sensitive mangrove forests, tidelands, seagrass beds, and coral reefs. It is a habitat for more than 5,300 species, 262 of which are endangered, including critically endangered dugongs and recently discovered large colonies of blue coral. Harmful impacts are already being felt just from the preparatory activities.

I am counting on you to use your power in Congress to stand up for Okinawa’s people and their environment in the face of devastating circumstances caused by the development of a U.S. military base. I ask that you publicly oppose the construction of the military base in Henoko, Okinawa Prefecture, and use the power of your office to work to stop it. I appreciate your support and look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

First name

Last name

Email address

Zip Code

What is your cell phone number?

Alerts about ways you can take action

Friends of the Earth Action Activists

By submitting this form, you are signing up to receive updates and alerts from Friends of the Earth and Friends of the Earth Action. You may unsubscribe at any time.

By providing your mobile number and submitting this form, you are signing up to receive periodic SMS messages from Friends of the Earth and Friends of the Earth Action. Msg & data rates may apply. Text STOP to 91990 to stop receiving messages. Text HELP to 91990 for more information. Terms & conditions.