Report from Taiji: November 12

A good day in Taiji.

The greedy molesters went out this morning despite the thunderstorms, but came back by 8 a.m. without any dolphins. It is good for them to go out and spend money on fuel. We do expect they will go out over the next several days for this is the height of the “season” and the weather is working against the dolphins. Swim far, fast, and deep.

Over the past several weeks we have been here, we have come to recognize many of the “trainers” who participate in the wicked practice of Taiji. These men and women are just as much molesters as the men who track down and slaughter the dolphins. In fact, all who make their living in the trade and exploitation of marine mammals are molesters whose hands drip with the blood of countless dolphins. Those who patronize their parks and programs provide the economic engine that drives the horror in Taiji. If we can end the demand, there will be no need for the supply.

If you are in Boston in early December, let these molesters know what you think about them. Get their photographs so the world can be shown the faces of those who drive the slaughter and imprisonment. The annual IMATA conference is in Boston this year.

Keep up the barrage on your own governments and the embassies and consulates of Japan the world over. Every time dolphins are pushed into the Cove, let them have it. Every time there is blood in the water, let them have it. Do not grow weary for you are being heard. Together we will see an end to the slaughter of whales and dolphins in Japan and by Japanese crews the world over.

In addition, continue to make good consumer choices. If Japanese corporations see enough of a loss of market share over this, they too will put pressure on their government.  This whole business is absurd.

Japan has the history, academic institutions, technical savvy, and motivation to lead the world in marine conservation. Why does this government instead insist on making Japan the pariah of the modern world?

It is unfortunate that the reputation of an entire nation is being tarnished by the evil and shameful deeds of a handful of men and women in Taiji. To join us (voluntarily, and completely at your own cost and risk) in Taiji, write to me at inform-us@seashepherd.org. I will get back to you, but please be patient. I cannot keep an eye on the Cove and answer email at the same time. Contributions to Sea Shepherd to keep our official presence here are needed and welcome. I am the current official Sea Shepherd representative and will be replaced by Michael Dalton when I leave on December 9, 2010.

For the Oceans,

Scott West
Sea Shepherd Conservation Society

Here are photos of the trainer/molesters in Taiji

The Blog Log:
My daughter, Elora Malama West, has been with me here since day one and keeps a blog of her experiences.
Current Cove Guardians Tarah, Heber, and Rosie and Dinielle are also keeping blogs.
Future Cove Guardians Carolyn,  Steven,  Bob and Carrie and William have started blogs about their endeavors.
The Taiji Dolphin Action Group blog.