In a Brooklyn studio, a diverse group gathered. A graduate student, a Yiddish teacher, and a hairdresser were among those who turned up on a Wednesday night for a training session by Extinction Rebellion NYC and Climate Defiance. These groups focus on climate activism through nonviolent protests and creative demonstrations.
As they munched on pizza, ideas flowed on grabbing attention without facing backlash. But their efforts have apparently started attracting federal scrutiny. Recently, an FBI agent visited a former member, inquiring about Extinction Rebellion’s activities.
This isn’t the first time environmental activists have come under the FBI’s lens. However, this visit raises concerns about the government’s increasing push against peaceful protests, especially during the Trump administration. Following recent violence against conservative activists, President Trump issued a memorandum targeting domestic terrorism and political violence, essentially classifying certain views and protests as threats.
This has alarmed civil liberties advocates. Dana Fisher, who studies activism, outlined the wider implications, suggesting that targeting groups like Extinction Rebellion reflects a creeping autocracy in the U.S. The agent who visited the activist reportedly had connections to the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, raising eyebrows about government intentions toward dissenting voices.
In a notable tweet, Harmeet Dhillon, the Justice Department’s civil rights division assistant attorney general, hinted at investigating whether Climate Defiance violated any laws after they disrupted a public event held by a local congressman. Similar encounters have been reported by Boston activists.
Nate Smith, one of the training’s facilitators, noted that this federal interest has instilled fear within the group. “It has created what it intended to, which is fear,” he said, recalling the chilling experiences of fellow activists targeted by authorities. Many are concerned that even without laws being broken, the mere act of investigation can disrupt lives significantly.
During the training, attendees shared their motivations for activism—finding community and learning to amplify their voices on climate issues. The events they analyzed included everything from protests at banks to demonstrations that drew ample media attention, such as incidents involving European activists throwing soup on famous artworks. These actions sparked debate on effectiveness and public perception.
Smith and his fellow organizers have urged their group to critique the Trump administration’s environmental policies directly, pushing back against systematic dismantling of climate protections. They’re clear that they abide by nonviolent principles, prioritizing civil dialogue even while making bold statements through protests. Their core demand? For the government to acknowledge the climate emergency openly.
The group operates independently, with core members often focusing on mobilizing community support. However, their landscape is quickly changing. Legal costs and fears of federal scrutiny can deter many from activism. Experts suggest that efforts to suppress dissent often backfire; history reveals that intimidation can galvanize communities to fight back harder.
Amid these challenges, there remains a vibrant spirit among the activists. Determined not to be intimidated, they find strength in solidarity, continuing their mission to advocate for urgent climate action. As Smith expressed, “They’re scared”—indicating that the government’s aggressive stance might reflect their own recognition of the growing momentum within the climate movement.
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climate action,Climate activism,climate activists,Climate Defiance,Environmental Justice,Extinction Rebellion,FBI,New York,new york city,Protest,protests,Trump Administration
