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Photos via Treesavers' website
Jerry Peace Activist Rubin followed through with what he said he would do if he had to after a year of battling with the city of Santa Monica over trees. Yesterday, he tied himself to a ficus tree that was being dug up and removed. Santa Monica Police arrested him for "resisting or interfering with a police officer." In a letter posted on the Treesavers' website, a writer says Rubin's actions were a powerful statement, especially in an election year:
Jerry was very, very effective today. He argued the Treesavers case and, as Susan said, he did what he said he would do. He brought more public attention to the matter and, in the face of an upcoming election, I can't help but think this will cause some concern for City Council candidates. It was very sad to see the trees' roots being cut -- so obvious that they will never survive any relocation. Getting arrested, while acting in a peaceful manner, was a powerful statement. Thank you Jerry.
Rubin is running for Santa Monica City Council this November.