We stand in solidarity with the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, environmental defenders, and all those who exercised their First Amendment rights to oppose the Dakota Access Pipeline. Today, those same voices are under attack.

Billionaire Kelcy Warren and his company, Energy Transfer—the owner of DAPL—have launched a $300 million SLAPP lawsuit against Greenpeace in an effort to punish the organization and weaken the entire climate justice movement. This case is not just about one organization—it is a direct threat to free speech, the right to protest, and corporate accountability. It threatens everyone who participates in civic life, regardless of political orientation.

As the trial begins, transparency is at serious risk. The proceedings are shrouded in secrecy: the judge has denied public access by refusing to livestream the trial and by sealing critical documents Greenpeace needs for its defense. Jury trials in North Dakota are routinely livestreamed—Court TV recently broadcast two high-profile criminal trials. This lack of transparency undermines public trust in the judicial system and shields corporations from scrutiny.

We call on Judge James Gion to allow full public access to this case and ensure that the trial is available via livestream. The public has a right to see how corporate power is weaponizing our courts to suppress advocacy and dissent.

We urge all who believe in justice and free speech to support the Trial Monitoring Committee and help demand transparency from the court.