JMU - New Hotbed of Political Activism?

This morning on the way to work I noticed that the traffic on what are usually uncongested, free-flowing streets leading to downtown Richmond were awfully crowded (then I thought, "Why the fuck am I not riding my bike?).  I had no idea what had caused such an unusual back-up.  Finally, I know.  A lively bunch of college students were protesting the proposed coal-fired power plants in Southwest Virginia.  I guess not too many people want a power plant in their backyard.

 I wouldn't call my self an environmentalist, I'm rather ignorant when it comes to such matters.  Although, I like to think I'm learning.   I knew Dominion Power was attempting to build a new plant, but not more than that.  It's not the reason for protest that grabbed my attention, but that three of five protesters mentioned in the RTD article were from James Madison University.  Straight out of Harrisonburg, these rowdy environmental activists came to Richmond to make a stand.  Where was the political activism when I attended JMU?

You may disagree with me, but I think they made a good point.  I had forgotten about the issue, and I'm sure that at least some of the people sitting in traffic, late for work, will find out what was going on and maybe a little more.  I don't have a strong opinion about the issue.  Is this just NIMBYism or...?  Maybe now I will learn enough to have an opinion.

I like the excitement and activism coming, at least partially, from my alma mater.

Article here

Comments

[RVA Foodie]

Not In My Back Yard is right on the money if you consider that the air, atmosphere, and ozone are part of everyone's backyard - worldwide. Coal Fired power plants are a catalyst for global warming. I could be wrong, but the power plants will be far from Harrisonburg, home to JMU. However, the nuclear power plants that Dominion plans for Lake Anna will have a radiation fall-out area that includes JMU and Richmond. I included more about the protesters' message on my blog (and pictures).

[anon anon]

It's almost 300 miles between Harrisonburg and Wise County. The coal plants are Not in JMU's Back Yard (NIJMUBY).

[anon anon]

It's almost 300 miles between Harrisonburg and Wise County. The coal plants are Not in JMU's Back Yard (NIJMUBY).