Erica in IB!

The gathering was to protest Nestle, and like every true Geulphite, I fully support the cause. Guelph water is my milk and honey, it’s just so deliciously clean! I’m not an expert but to explain the situation as I understand it, Guelph is situated on a nice big aquifer which is where we get our yummy water. Nestle is a really big company who mostly sells chocolate but also water for some reason. Nestle has a deal with whoever owns the aquifer (this is where I’m not exactly sure about details) to pump water out of the aquifer, bottle it in plastic bottles (another issue completely), and sell it. The problem is, while the citizens of Guelph restrict their water usage because of the drought we are experiencing, Nestle continues to pump as much water as they want out of the aquifer. And they want a lot! The people of Guelph want Nestle to get out before our aquifer just runs dry and our wonderful water is gone, but it’s a tricky situation and lot’s of steps have to be taken. This protest was mainly to support Councillor James Gordon and his motion saying that Nestles “permit to take water is not in the best interests of the City of Guelph and the watershed shared by the City of Guelph”.  He seems nice.

Anyways, the protest was a lot more spiritual then I expected. There was a “moment of prayer” to the water and general water and life loving vibes were going around. The aboriginal women's drumming group was also there, and there were some fun sing a long drum songs that I wish I knew. 

I am very interested to know what comes of these protests and wether or not the motion to refer the issue to the Committee of Whole, where it can be debated will pull through. I have signed up for emails on the cause so I can follow the progress and hopefully attend more events like this!

P.S. I really liked the signs, and I got a pin.