Dear All,
We would like to share with you that we have filed a legal complaint against the city of Missoula. The Missoulian published an article about this on Thursday, which you can find here. Our group, Rooted in Environmental Justice (REJ), believes in the power of community, place, neighborhoods and ecological equity and preservation. Since this Missoulian article has come out we have heard a few people critical of our intentions and accusing our group of being "NIMBY" and anti-development. We want to be clear that we are and have always been pro-neighbors, pro-housing and pro-sustainable development. Our advocacy champions affordable and sustainable development while upholding our democratic public process through including pre-existing neighborhoods and neighbors' voices. We also importantly advocate for our insect, plant, tree and animal neighbors. With that said, there has been far more public support shown towards the article and our mission than criticism.
It has been a long journey to get to where we are now, and we are forever grateful to all of you for your support in helping us get here. We have included the legal complaint to read if you would like. Please note that the members of REJ that have been named as plaintiffs have asked for their names to be redacted, as there is concern for safety and retaliation. Please respect members desires to remain private.
Nature; our trees, flowers, animals and insects are some of our greatest ancestors. Because of the sustenance and abundance that nature has created we are afforded a clean and healthful environment. Thank you for helping protect some of our most important elders and for continuing this journey alongside us.
We will keep you updated as the journey continues to unfold.
With deep gratitude,
REJ