“Some issues are so important that you just need to stand up and get in the way.”
The words of Greenpeace Executive Director Phil Radford during a recent mOppenheim.TV interview morphed into action during a peaceful protest at a Gazprom oil rig in the Artic. This September, 30 people from 18 countries were detained by Russian authorities and charged with piracy. Piracy in Russia carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Early response to the incident has been split, which is typical of how the public has historically responded to Greenpeace direct action. Supporters applaud Greenpeace, admiring their use of direct action to focus public attention on issues. Critics question the motives of Greenpeace and view direct action as nothing more than a fundraising publicity stunt.
When championing a cause, we all confront the same question: how far is too far… and how far is not far enough?
What do you think?
***
Visit mOppenheim.TV to view more segments with environmental conservation leaders.
We deliver executive search for nonprofits and produce videos on nonprofit leadership.
Call us at: +1(415) 762-2650 or info@mOppenheim.com.