Fridays for Future, the climate movement inspired by Greta Thunberg, has called for a global day of climate action on Sept. 25. Many groups around the world are planning events – both in person and online aimed at drawing attention to the climate emergency. The P.E.I. Fridays for Future Climate Action Group is holding a rally that day from noon to 2 p.m. in front of Province House on Grafton Street. They join with others, including Fridays for Future Canada, 350.org, and Amnesty International Canada to call on our governments to take immediate action to reduce global warming and to meet targets set out in the Paris Agreement.
As countries around the world prepare to spend billions to help their economies recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, many climate groups are emphasizing the importance of investing in human well-being and a green, low-carbon economy for this year’s global climate action day. Themes such as “A Just Recovery for All” and “Build Back Better” reflect a growing call for systemic change in our social and economic institutions; recognizing that tackling climate change goes hand in hand with creating a more equitable world. Here in Canada the speech from the throne will be delivered on Sept. 23 outlining a pathway to recovery for this country. The P.E.I. Fridays for Future group plans to review the throne speech and take an opportunity at the Sept. 25 rally to speak on its compatibility with the principles of a green and just recovery.
Greta Thunberg recently offered a grim assessment of progress on the climate crisis since she began her Friday school strikes two years ago in Sweden. She and some of her fellow activists wrote in The Guardian International Edition: “The climate and ecological crisis has never once been treated as a crisis. The gap between what we need to do and what’s actually being done is widening by the minute.“ She has called on adults to help with this youth lead movement: “... to change everything we need everyone.” Sept. 25 is an opportunity to show support for the world’s youth who are trying to secure a sustainable future for everyone.
The P.E.I. Fridays for Future Climate Action Group works to effect immediate action on the climate emergency by advocating with the public and all levels of government for effective climate policies which are both scientifically based and equitable for all. They hold weekly climate rallies, 4-5 p.m., at Province House on Grafton Street in Charlottetown. All are welcome to join in.
Marilyn McKay is a member of the P.E.I. Fridays for Future Climate Action Group.
