Lifesaver: Help protect the planet and Indigenous rights

Imagine planning a camping trip with your family. You’ve found the perfect spot—next to a sparkling river where fish leap from the water and eagles glide through the sky. Now, imagine someone deciding to build a massive pipeline through that area without asking what you think. It’s not just unfair; it could destroy everything that makes the place special.

This is what’s happening in British Columbia right now. A huge pipeline project called the Prince Rupert Gas Transmission (PRGT) is being built to carry liquefied natural gas (LNG) across 900 kilometers of land. The problem? The project was approved back in 2014 using old studies that don’t reflect today’s environmental and climate realities.

Even back then, experts warned it could harm animals like caribou and increase climate change. Now, with warmer rivers, more wildfires, and changes to the pipeline’s route, the risks are even greater—but no new studies have been done to see the real impact.

This is imagery of the Coastal GasLink pipeline being built through Wet’suwet’en land, an Indigenous community facing similar challenges.

Worse, this pipeline is being built on land belonging to Indigenous Nations who have not given their consent. Many of these Nations, including the Gitanyow, Gitxsan, and Nisga’a, have lived on and protected these lands for thousands of years. This land is more than just a place, it’s their home, history, and way of life. Imagine someone building something massive in your backyard without asking if it was okay. Wouldn’t that feel wrong?

Here’s where you come in

Governments in Canada and British Columbia can still pause this project and do the right thing. They can update the environmental studies and ensure Indigenous Nations are fully involved in decisions about what happens on their lands. But they need to hear from us—especially young people like you. Writing a letter can help them understand why this matters and push them to act.

How to Write a Letter That Makes a Difference

1. Start with Respect

  • Address the person in charge: 

Dear Premier Eby,

  • Introduce yourself and why you care: 

My name is (write your name), and I care deeply about protecting the environment and supporting Indigenous rights.

2. Explain Your Concern

  • Share the problem: 

The PRGT project is based on outdated studies and risks harming the environment, animals, and people. It is being built without the full consent of Indigenous Nations, whose lands it crosses.

3. Make a Clear Request

  • Ask for action: 

I urge you to order a new environmental assessment for the PRGT project and to ensure that Indigenous Nations are fully involved in every decision.

4. End with Gratitude

  • Thank them for their time: 

Thank you for listening to my concerns. I hope you’ll take steps to protect the environment and respect Indigenous rights.

In the Canadian province of British Columbia on unceded land, the Indigenous Wet’suwet’en Nation is protecting its territory and sacred sites against the construction of a gas pipeline.

Where to Send Your Letter

Since Canada Post workers are currently on strike, emailing or using social media is the fastest way to reach decision-makers. You can email Premier David Eby at Premier@gov.bc.ca or send a message to his social media accounts: @Dave_Eby on X or @DavidEbybc on Instagram. If you want to mail your letter later, here’s the address:

Honourable David Eby

Premier of British Columbia 

PO Box 9041 Stn Prov Govt 

Victoria, BC V8W 9E1 

You can also email the Minister of Environment, Tamara Davidson, at ENV.minister@gov.bc.ca

What else can you do:

  • Share With Friends and Family: Download a copy of this action and explain why it matters. The more people who speak up, the stronger the message.
download a pdf of this LIFESAVER
  • Join Write for Rights: Millions of people worldwide are writing letters to protect human rights. Learn more about this amazing campaign.
  • Take the Student Challenge: Participate in the Write for Rights Student Challenge and make history while having fun. You could even win $200! Categories include:
    • Most Letters Written 
    • Most Creative Solidarity Piece for the Wet’suwet’en Campaign 
    • Most Petition Signatures 
    • Highest TikTok Engagement 

This isn’t just a contest, your chance to create real change. Let’s show the world what young people in Canada can achieve when we stand up for what’s right! 🌎✍️rights.

Please take action as soon as possible until May 25, 2025! The UA will be duly updated should there be the need for further action.

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