"You're a great spokesperson, " said a fellow coal fighter to me about a month ago. "We're counting on you."
Somehow I have more recently emerged as one of the local leaders against Big Coal. When there is an event, I help organize it. A press conference, I help host it. Comments needed by the local paper, I provide one.
So, when someone was needed to go to Austin, yet again, to represent West Texas...I did it.
Through shakes, shivers, sweats and butterflies I managed to make a four-minute speech before the Sunset Advisory Committee [at the Capitol building] headed up by a Texas Senator.
Once per decade Texas agencies undergo a Sunset Review. It is a time for public involvement regarding the positive and negative aspects of these agencies and the changes that are seen as necessary. With our more recent dealings with the TCEQ (Texas Commission on Environmental Quality)---who, the day before I testified had granted Tenaska their air permit---and the obvious fact that it is quite corrupt, it was quite fitting that I speak on behalf of all those people who could not make the trip to Austin. There was only one chance on one day to give my public statement, and I felt it necessary. I waited from 8:30 am....and finally gave my statement just after 8:00 pm.
After stating the necessaries---my name, where I live, who I represent---I began my testimony:
I am here tonight on behalf of all these people to assert to you what we have found to be quite obvious. The TCEQ is not working for the people of Texas; the everyday, hard-working citizens of Texas.....
"You have no idea how proud of you I am right now," whispered one of my allies immediately after.
"That was one of the best speeches I've heard here," stated another.
I've grown.
This fight has forced me to do things I never thought I was capable of. Speeches before the EPA-- Senators-- Representatives-- Suits? Press conferences? Newspaper interviews? TV News interviews?
It's crazy.
But I believe something good can emerge from even the worst of situations. I never in my wildest dreams thought I would be fighting a multi-billion dollar corporation in a west Texas town. Fighting the 'Good Ole' Boys', the 'Town Fathers' and all the industry goons.
It's little me against them.
...And I actually kind-of like it.
I now understand the pull....the desire to help others, even though the hours are long and the pay minimal. At the end of the day, if you can feel good about what you have done, it makes the effort worth far more.
I continue to stand up for the people who will be adversly affected by this potential coal-plant...and they are starting to notice.
But even if they didn't...
It feels good to do something selfless and good. To speak for those who feel they have no voice.
