If you only have a couple of minutes of time, go here for some action items.

Sign up for a shift to watch our trees!

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June 17 Update: Thank you to everyone that showed up at the PUSD meeting last night - what a showing!

Today we are monitoring that tree felling has been paused.
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June 16 Update: Activity reported at Longfellow this morning.

This evening there is a 6:00PM PUSD board meeting, and some community members are going in the hopes to make public comments.

IN-PERSON
351 S. HUDSON AVENUE PASADENA, CA. 91101
Board Room, Room 236

VIRTUAL
webex.com
ID: 26339958986
Password: YVeXpU3qU34

PHONE
415-655-0001
Access code: 2633 995 8986
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June 15 Update: Roots are being dug up around a tree NOT on the official removals list at Octavia. It appears that the concrete work they are doing is not a part of the 193 tree removal project, but the work around the tree roots is breaking local tree ordinances. If anyone knows the name of this project, that will help us file for information requests.

Michael Dunning has threatened those standing on the sidewalk as breaking the law. He has stated that the project will continue and that he is 'unwilling to talk to anyone about it'. If you can gather recorded statements from him, that would help with the emergency injunction.

Also, if you can identify the tree removal companies - that would be immensely helpful. The onsite workers have been unwilling to disclose who they work for.
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June 13 Update: Community rumors are that tree-felling activities will continue at Washington School on Monday, and Franklin and Jefferson Schools on Wednesday.

You can show up for an hour, or even less at any of the 9 sites, staying onsite and monitoring activity. Sidewalks are public property. The school grounds are public property but are considered 'controlled', meaning the public does not have a right to be there, if not for 'lawful purposes'. Documentation of activities is critical evidence. Even a quick check-in is immensely helpful.

Sign up for shifts here.

Please protest peacefully.

Know Your Rights as a Tree Watch Observer

Where you can be
Sidewalks and public rights-of-way are public spaces. You have the right to stand, observe, and document on the public sidewalk. You do not need a permit to be present on a public sidewalk as a bystander or observer.

What you can do
You can film, photograph, and document anything visible from the public right-of-way. Recording people in public spaces - including workers and contractors - is legal in California. Do not block access, traffic, or work vehicles, as that can shift liability to you.

The chainsaw threat
Threatening someone with a weapon - even a tool like a chainsaw - may constitute criminal threatening or assault (placing someone in fear of imminent harm). If this happens, observers should:

  • Write down exactly what was said/done, time, and any witnesses
  • File a police report (even if you think they won't act, it creates a record)
  • Document with video if it ever happens again

What workers/contractors can and cannot do
They cannot physically remove you from a public sidewalk. Only law enforcement can do that, and only if you're actually obstructing. They cannot seize your phone or camera. If someone tries to intimidate or physically block observers, document and call 911.

If police are called on you
Stay calm, don't argue. You can say: "I am standing on a public sidewalk and I am not blocking access." You are not required to leave a public sidewalk unless a lawful order is given and a specific violation explained.

Practical tips for shifts

  • Go in pairs when possible
  • Keep phones charged and video-ready
  • Don't engage or argue with workers - just observe and document
  • Note truck license plates, company names, and contractor badges
  • Have a group contact/coordinator to call if things escalate