In February, climate activists Jackson Green and Donald Zepeda pulled off a daring stunt. They entered the National Archives in Washington D. C. , armed with red paint and pink powder. Their target? The display cases protecting the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence. The act was a clear protest, but it didn't go unnoticed or unpunished.

Colleen Shogan, the head of the National Archives and Records Administration, called the incident an "emotional buzzsaw. " She emphasized that these documents are more than just old papers. They're the core principles of the United States. Green and Zepeda's actions caused real damage, both physically and symbolically.

The paint and powder spread throughout the Rotunda, threatening to stain the historic marble. The Bill of Rights, housed in the same space, was thankfully spared. The total damage? Over $50, 000. The Rotunda was closed for four days, and the cleanup was extensive.

Shogan believes the punishment should fit the crime. She argued that this isn't just vandalism; it's an attack on the nation's history and values. Free speech is cherished in the U. S. , but it doesn't excuse harmful actions. The stunt should have significant consequences to maintain respect for the rule of law.

Green, from Utah, was sentenced to 18 months in prison. Zepeda, from Maryland, received a two-year sentence. Both accepted plea deals. Shogan hopes their punishment sends a clear message: attacks on national treasures won't be taken lightly.

Protecting History: Why Climate Activists Face Tough Punishment

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