Great Lakes Organizations Launch World Record Campaign to Underscore Water Protection and Shut Down Line 5

MADISON, Wis. – Today, Fish for the Future kicks off its campaign to break the world record for largest display of origami fish as a collective effort to promote protecting our water and shutting down the Line 5 pipeline.

Fish for the Future is composed of organizations, activists, and volunteers from across the Great Lakes region. The campaign seeks to break the world’s largest display of origami fish, currently set at 18,303 origami fish by a group in Japan.

People from across the country are encouraged to fold fish and be part of breaking the world record. For guidance on hold to fold an origami fish and contribute to the project, please visit fishforfuture.org.

Fish for the Future members released the following statements:

“Water is the lifeblood of our region, and it’s important to spread awareness about the incredible risk Line 5 poses to the Great Lakes and the drinking water of 40 million people. That’s why we’re excited to launch Fish for the Future– we all need water, we all know how important it is to keep our water safe and clean. By coming together across the region to fold fish, we’re demonstrating our shared commitment to protect the Great Lakes, and we’re asking everyone to jump in and join us,” said Elizabeth Ward, Sierra Club Wisconsin chapter director.

“At MiCAN, we’re taking a stand by participating in the Fish for the Future project. Each fold is a bold declaration that we won’t sit idly by while our water and our communities are at risk. By crafting these symbols of unity, we’re showing that we’re committed to shutting down Line 5 and protecting our Great Lakes. We’re looking forward to contributing to a movement that demands a cleaner, safer, pipeline-free future for all!” said Erica Bouldin, Michigan Climate Action Network engagement coordinator.

“‘Fish for the Future’ will not only raise awareness about the significant threats that the Line 5 oil pipeline poses to the Great Lakes — it will create a source of joy and a sense of community during a time when we need it most. Imagine the power of people from across the region, the country, and possibly even the globe coming together, one paper fish at a time, to protect the water that every creature needs to survive. 350 Wisconsin is excited and honored to be a part of this powerfully unifying project,” said Britnie Remer, 350 Wisconsin fossil fuel resistance organizer.

“We urge decision-makers to prioritize the long-term health of all over short-term economic gains. Let’s make the bold choice to protect Wisconsin’s natural beauty and beyond. We have the chance to set a positive example for the rest of the country by embracing renewable energy and holding corporations accountable for the long-term health of all,” said Sister Georgia Christensen, Franciscan Sisters of Perpetual Adoration.

“Line 5 is a threat to the health of Wisconsin communities. Protecting our water means protecting our future. Together, we’re making waves for safer, renewable energy—because we can’t afford to let our ecosystems go belly up,” said Abby Novinska-Lois, Healthy Climate Wisconsin executive director.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.