Aslan Shand
There is fairly simple reason why students around the world are striking this Friday September 20 – they want to live on a viable planet, now, and into the future. You wouldn’t think it was such an unreasonable request – yet governments around the world have failed to take the action needed to ensure a future liviable planet.
‘While our leaders sit around denying the very existence of climate change we are losing precious time to combat the issue. We need leaders who think critically and creatively and have a vision of a clean and viable future,’ say local student organisers of the Byron Bay rally Inde and Mia.
‘No longer should we simply be “considering” the transition from coal to renewable energy, it needs to happen now. We need our parliamentarians to pass bills ensuring the safety of our future, to enforce the cutting down of carbon emissions, to enforce a dramatic reduction in the amount of plastic we use, to protect our environment.’
Businesses on board
Local businesses are also coming on board with Bella Rosa, Endless Summer, Baskin Robbins, Tasa Jara, Retrospect Gallery, Etnix, Beyond Oil electric transport, and Sustainable Futures Australia all shutting up shop between 10am and midday on September 20 for the global day of action.
‘Our actions are more important than ever,’ said Inde and Mia.
‘It is clear we cannot rely on the actions of our leaders to instigate the change that is necessary, so it is time to take it in to our own hands. The simplest actions have proven to be the most effective. The products and industries we support have more impact than we can fathom. As consumers our actions speak more than words.’
Gathering
Everyone who would like to participate in and support the student climate rally is asked to meet at the Rec Grounds in Byron Bay at 10am and then join the march to Main Beach.
‘This strike, we call on all to join us in this movement,’ say Inde and Mia.
‘We ask that you join us in the biggest global strike yet. Strike from your place of work, close your business and join us in making history. Spread the word, get on board, and protect our future and very existence!’
There will be hear speeches from local students and musical items from young artists.
Support the bus
The Byron Shire Youth 4 Climate group are currently raising money to help young people to get to the march on Go Fund Me https://bit.ly/2lVHRIc. If they can reach their target of $2,000 they will be able to provide busses for students to come from Mullumbimby and surrounding areas.
