September 20, 2019
Across the world today students went on strike for climate (“Skolstrejk för Klimatet“) in a show of force not seen in recent years. Greta Thunberg is a climate activist from Sweden whose solo sail across the Atlantic captivated our imaginations and captured our hearts. She’s in NYC for the UN Climate Action Summit 2019 and today she and thousands of young New Yorkers filled Foley Square, marched down Broadway, and rallied in Battery Park.
“The adults have failed us. And since most of them, including the press and the politicians, keep ignoring the situation, we must take action into our own hands, starting today.”
“The largest demonstration in Australian history…”#ClimateStrike pic.twitter.com/Lzgk67r2O1
— Alex Steffen (@AlexSteffen) September 20, 2019
Today’s mobilization was clearly a shot across the bow aimed squarely at politicians who imagine they can continue representing fossil fuel and polluter interests without consequence. These students get it. Those who are old enough to vote will be making themselves heard in the election next year in the USA. The younger ones will reach voting age over the next several years. Politicians and would-be office holders ignore them at their own peril. As the Olds die off, these young people will begin calling shots and taking down names.
Over 4 million on #ClimateStrike today. In 163 countries. And counting…
If you belong to the small number of people who feel threatened by us, then we we have some very bad news for you:
This is just the beginning. Change is coming – like it or not. #FridaysForFuture pic.twitter.com/MHGRNx1tnH— Greta Thunberg (@GretaThunberg) September 21, 2019
Foley Square today:
