500 signatures reached
To: To the District Court of Thief River Falls, MN
Petition for virtual access to observe a Water Protector trial
This petition is signed by individuals, including members of the public and the press, who want to watch Nicholas Engel's ( AKA Bernie) jury trial on July 19-21, 2023, case number 57-CR-21-729. Each of the individuals who have signed below would like to support Bernie and watch the jury trial, but can only watch virtually because travel to Thief River Falls, MN is difficult if not impossible, as well as an unnecessary expenditure of fossil fuels during climate change when virtual access is otherwise available. By signing below, each person also confirms that they have reviewed the Minnesota Court guidance (available here: https://www.mncourts.gov/mncourtsgov/media/scao_library/SelfHelpCenters/documents/Handout-Preparing-for-Your-Remote-Hearing.pdf) regarding virtual court etiquette and agree to follow all court rules and observe virtual court in a non-disruptive way. We also understand that certain portions of the trial, including jury selection, cannot be livestreamed.
Why is this important?
Nicholas Engel ( Bernie) is a water protector facing felony charges that were brought against them during the stop line 3 movement in 2021. Two years later we are still fighting, and we invite you to join us July 19th-21 2023 8:30am-4:30pm central daily.
The judge has indicated that because there is "not enough public interest" in supporting/watching Bernie's trial they will not allow the court procedures to be watched via zoom. So we are gathering the signatures to show that the public and press is interested and invested in the outcome of Bernie's trial.