by Mike Stevens, Washington State Director
There is no time to waste. To safeguard our future, we need everyone, right now, to get involved in tackling climate change. And so, on Friday, The Nature Conservancy in Washington will join hundreds of thousands of people all over the world, marching to bring attention to the defining issue of our era. Together we will raise our voices and our signs, demanding attention and action at every level.
We march in solidarity with teens like Olivia Schroeder, right, and friends. At the Youth Climate Strike in March, Olivia told us, “My participation in the climate strike and my volunteering has shown me that I can make a difference.”
The Nature Conservancy is not particularly known for taking it to the streets. We are non-partisan and solutions oriented, more likely to be found in a forest or a meeting room than at a rally. But the urgency of this issue compels our presence and our support. This movement is led by our planet’s youth. For months they have abandoned classrooms and school work to make their voices heard. We join them not just in solidarity but to let them know we are listening and to partner with them in creating a better future.
We march in part to offer hope. We believe there is a path to a sustainable future where people and nature both thrive. Together we can shape a future where communities are safe from rising sea level, where food and water sources are secure, where cities are clean, green and thriving. At TNC, our science points the way, our on-the-ground work models what can work and our passion fuels us towards progress.
The wisdom of youth leaders from around the world fills us with awe. We are proud to stand beside them and thankful for their willingness to lead. The steps we take as we march with them represent the many steps we must all take to change the world.
The time is now. Together we must unify, commit and channel our energy into action. The next generation demands it, and generations to come will thank us.
Banner photo by Lawrence Jackson.
