About 300 protesters gathered on Monday outside a Houston hotel where many of the worlds leading energy executives have convened for the largest annual industry conference, chanting, "we need clean air, not another billionaire!" The demonstration took place across the street from the conference venue in a park used by activists to voice concerns directly to attendees.
The conference, CERAWeek, draws executives from oil, gas and power companies worldwide, along with senior officials. This years roster of top government attendees includes U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright and Interior Secretary Doug Burgum.
Organizers said the protesters represented a broad coalition. "Members of 45 organizations from across the United States protested at a park across the street from the conference hotel," said Chloe Torres of the Texas Campaign for the Environment, who is from Corpus Christi, Texas.
"Were suffering the consequences of hyperindustrialization," Torres said. "This is what has people getting sicker. Its a huge strain on our lives. Its like they expect us to just take it. Weve come here to Houston to confront them."
Houston police were present at the scene, with officers grouped around a fenced area where the activists had gathered. Some officers were mounted on horses. As conference participants walked by the perimeter, protesters chanted "shame, shame." The law enforcement presence appeared focused on maintaining the separation between demonstrators and attendees.
The protest brought together environmental and community groups from around the country and staged their demonstration within sight of a major industry gathering that attracts corporate leaders and government officials. The visible confrontation between activists and conference attendees underscored the tensions surrounding industry practices and local health concerns that the protesters sought to highlight.
Details on any interactions between the demonstrators and conference participants, or on any subsequent actions by organizers or officials in response to the protest, were not provided in available accounts of the event.