Young people to heighten calls for change at latest climate rally

BY SHANNON VALENTINE

With another School Strike 4 Climate march set to take place on April 30, the country is entering a new phase of activism, where young people take to the streets seeking policy change.

The upcoming march is yet another national (and global) call-to-action for the future generations and a push for young, and mostly first-time voters, to take action for their futures.

The most recent strike, held in late March, was one of more than 30 separate School Strike 4 Climate marches held across Australia on the same day.

On March 31 the Federal Budget cut funding for climate action leaving many young citizens wondering what the future would hold for them.

School Strike 4 Climate organiser Emma Giles said the government has not done enough.

“For the most part we have been ignored by the government, but we will keep striking. We have heard enough empty promises. It's time for some real, tangible climate action and climate justice,” Ms Giles said.

“What happens now has the potential to change our future.”

“We are at a crucial point. We want to live on a safe planet and we need help to do so.”

On its website, School Strike 4 Climate uses the hashtag #PeopleNotProfit as a demand to big corporations, and the government, to prioritise the wellbeing of citizens over short-term profit.

A second march organiser, Diana Boo, said she experiences mixed feelings during these events.

“I feel angry and upset because of the government’s lack of action, but I feel so much love and gratitude for everyone who decided to show up. There’s an immense sense of community in each strike,” Ms Boo said.

The Global COVID-19 Pandemic has heavily impacted marches and other social justice events over the past two years.

Ms Boo said the pandemic has changed people’s priority towards “humanity's biggest threat.”

“Many in the movement became inactive because dealing with a pandemic, a climate emergency, and school work all at the same time can take a big toll on people,” she said.

“There are many graduated strikers/mentors who organise alongside students and help with things students are not able to take on their own. Everyone can play an impactful role regardless of their age and background.”

With the Federal Election to be held on May 21, these passionate young people, with the support of their friends and families, are doing what they can to create a better future.

First time voters will have the chance to have their say on climate inaction at the polling booth.

The next School Strike 4 Climate Event will be a forum held at Box Hill Town Hall on April 30.