Key Takeaways
- A Dunedin climate activist, Bruce Mahalski, attempted to pay a court levy with a hand-drawn $50 note as a publicity stunt.
- Mahalski was convicted of trespass and received a six-month deferred sentence after holding a sign at Dunedin Airport and breaching a trespass notice.
- The activist objects to the wording of the offender levy notice, which implies that his crime was anti-social, when in fact he believes his motives were selfless and aimed at protecting the community.
- The hand-drawn note features a portrait of Shane Jones, a vulture instead of kōkako, and cannabis leaves, and will be auctioned off on Trade Me with half the proceeds going to victims of violent crime.
Introduction to the Incident
A recent incident in Dunedin, New Zealand, has brought attention to the creative and unconventional methods used by climate activists to make a point. Bruce Mahalski, a 62-year-old climate activist, attempted to pay a court levy with a hand-drawn $50 note in a publicity stunt outside the Dunedin Courthouse. This unusual move was part of a larger effort by Mahalski to highlight the importance of addressing the climate emergency, which he believes is being neglected by the government.
Background on the Activist’s Conviction
Mahalski’s actions were a result of his conviction for trespass, which he received after holding an A3 paper sign saying "It’s a climate emergency" at Dunedin Airport in July last year. Despite being served a trespass notice, Mahalski returned to the terminal building the following month and refused to leave, breaching the order. This led to his conviction and a six-month deferred sentence. Mahalski’s actions were seen as a form of protest, and his attempt to pay the court levy with a hand-drawn note was a continuation of his efforts to bring attention to the climate emergency.
The Hand-Drawn Note and its Significance
The hand-drawn $50 note featured a portrait of Shane Jones, a vulture instead of kōkako, and cannabis leaves. Mahalski explained that he created the note as a form of protest against the wording of the offender levy notice, which stated that the fee was "to help address the harm that their crimes cause." Mahalski objected to this wording, arguing that his motives were selfless and aimed at protecting the community, rather than committing an anti-social crime. The note was a creative way for Mahalski to express his dissent and highlight the importance of addressing the climate emergency.
The Outcome of the Publicity Stunt
While Mahalski’s attempt to use the hand-drawn note as payment did not succeed, his associate bought the art with a real $50 note, which Mahalski then used to pay the levy. This was not the first time Mahalski had used an unconventional method to pay the fee; last time, he paid with a real $50 note inside a bag of coal. The hand-drawn note will be auctioned off on Trade Me, with half the proceeds going to victims of violent crime. Mahalski hopes to get $1000 for the note, which will not only raise funds for a good cause but also continue to bring attention to the climate emergency.
The Broader Implications of the Incident
The incident highlights the creative and often unconventional methods used by climate activists to bring attention to their cause. Mahalski’s actions, while unorthodox, have sparked conversation and raised awareness about the importance of addressing the climate emergency. The incident also underscores the need for governments and individuals to take action to address the climate crisis, which is becoming increasingly urgent. As Mahalski stated, the climate emergency is an "ever worsening existential threat to all humanity," and it requires immediate attention and action.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the incident involving Bruce Mahalski and his hand-drawn $50 note is a testament to the creativity and determination of climate activists. While the stunt may not have achieved its intended goal of paying the court levy, it has brought attention to the climate emergency and highlighted the need for urgent action. As the world continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change, it is essential to recognize the importance of addressing this issue and to support those who are working to bring attention to it. The auction of the hand-drawn note on Trade Me will not only raise funds for a good cause but also serve as a reminder of the need for continued action and awareness about the climate emergency.
