Protesters Escorted from LNG Summit Amid Environmental Concerns

On Monday, October 21, 2025, representatives from the community organization For a Better Bayou were escorted from the 21st Americas LNG Summit and Exhibition held at L’Auberge Casino and Resort. The group, which advocates for environmental and cultural protection, was actively participating in a demonstration aimed at highlighting what they describe as the “true cost” of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) operations in local regions.

The demonstration took place at Israel LaFleur Park and was supported by the Fisherfamily Advisory Council on Tradition and Stewardship (FACTS) and the Habitat Recovery Project. The overarching message focused on the detrimental impact of LNG expansion on local communities, claiming it undermines local economies and negatively affects Louisiana fishermen.

Escalation of Tensions at the Summit

Following the demonstration, members of For a Better Bayou sought to engage directly with Dustin Davison, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Conservation and Energy (LDCE), at the summit. Their attempt to raise concerns about the environmental impact of LNG operations led to their removal from the venue after hotel security contacted law enforcement, including the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Lake Charles Police Department.

Solomon Williams Jr., a representative of FACTS, expressed frustration regarding their removal. In an email to the American Press, he stated, “We weren’t protesting or bothering anybody. We were just standing around, calm and respectful. We need answers about the dredge spill that’s destroyed our livelihoods.” Williams, an oyster fisherman from Cameron, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability from the industry.

Impact on Local Communities

According to a news release from For a Better Bayou, surging U.S. LNG exports have reportedly added over $100 billion in costs to American consumers within a span of just 16 months, as cited from the Institute for Energy Economics and Financial Analysis (IEEFA). The organization also criticized the LDCE for failing to hold public meetings or adequately engage with affected fishermen.

Despite the tension, it was reported that the speakers were able to briefly meet with Davison later. Although details of that discussion remain limited, the involved parties expressed a mutual interest in fostering coexistence between local fishermen and industry representatives, contingent on the LDCE adhering to its commitments regarding transparency.

The American Press has reached out to the LDCE for further comments regarding the incident and the ongoing concerns raised by community organizations.