Climate March: What happend to those over 50 plus?
I have looked forward to this day for quite some time. At least since I read Naomi Klein´s book, This Changes Everything. I want to be one of few over 50 who takes part in taking a stand for the climate. Or, I could say, take a stand against something. I say this because I have taken part in some marches or events to highlight something important since this summer and I hardly ever see people over 50. They are there, a few of them, almost without exception people who have been activists all their lifes. Not like me, who just got started. And, another issue I have noticed, as I explain in this video below:
I have to say, I am still far from comfortable taking part in these -very important- mass actions against something which is important for the future of humankind. I feel kind of the odd guy out who doesn´look like he knows where he belongs, nobody approaches me or my children. And I feel very uncomfortable with a bunch of people shouting the same slogan over and over again, even if it is important. But that is just me. Because I am also often critical to the speakers at these events who I find lifeless and not too inspirational. But, today, a young feminist from Jokkmokk, Mimi Marak, really fired up the audience of 1100 people with reality. She was in it, hands on, fighting a British Mining Company in the North and her angst, anger and fighting spirit moved us all. Once again, a tip for everyone organizing events where you need passion, bring in people who are in the midst of it!
The reason for this March? This event was part of the Global Climate March. On November 30th, world leaders meet in Paris to start negotiating the next global climate deal. That’s why, the day before, people around the world took to the streets and to push leaders at every level of government to commit to 100% clean energy. Together, we can push the world towards a climate deal that gets us off dirty energy and unleashes clean energy for all. Does it work? Well, it is a little step forward and the Guardian is updating regularly -like right now saying the police in Paris are using teargas against marchers! – see here and I posted a photo to the Guardian, which is there to see if you wish.
As important for me, was to introduce Dana and Eva to this concept and hoepfully get them to understand the issues they will be facing with the ongoing climate disaster. Because, believe me, I can vouch for it, it does happen. In most places where I have been. Eva have discussed this in school and she new the planet was sick and we need to take care of all the rubbish. Dana has no clue of course as a three year old. But they both liked the marching with a lot of people and I believe they were the youngest marchers on foot. It was also the first march for me and I enjoyed it. there´s something hypnotic in being part of a bigger ensamble marching towards a goal. We had a great time together, the girls and me.
I have to say, having been part of the Climate March makes me feel content with life. I will continue to stand up for what I believe needs to be stood up for. However, having become slightly cynical towards world leaders and politicians in general, I doubt we will -not in reality, maybe in words- make much head way in Paris. Maybe we will reach some kind of a common goal that we have to deal with the situation, but maybe not now.
