Global day of action for climate justice (UPDATED)

There will be a global day of action to protect the planet on Thursday, March 11, with at least two events available for local residents.

The aim of the events is to show that faith communities are united in calling for climate justice. The theme is "Sacred People, Sacred Earth."

An interfaith walk scheduled for 11 a.m. at the state Capitol. Participants are asked to wear masks and social distance. Sponsors are Greenfaith, NY Renews, and the Capital Region Interfaith Creation Care Coalition. 

At 5:30 p.m., people will join Schenectady Clergy Against Hate at Riverside Park to pray for climate justice. "The event will include local faith leaders and activists as well as young people who will be disproportionately affected by the climate crisis. Social distancing and masks will be required and there will be a virtual component for those who do not feel comfortable gathering in-person." Participants are asked to bring signs. First Reformed Church of Schenectady, 8 North Church Street, will allowing individuals with accessibility concerns to park in a limited number of spots in their parking lot. The event will be roughly thirty minutes and will take place rain or shine.

 

The event’s organizers have a list of ten demands including 100 percent renewable energy for all;  welcome for climate immigrants; net zero emissions by 2030; and bold leadership from the faith community. 

 

A statement from the groups notes: 

In the months ahead, governments and financial institutions will spend massive sums in response to the pandemic. Governments will present climate commitments at COP26 in November 2021. These actions must not perpetuate an outdated economic system that relies on fossil fuels and the destruction of the very forests, waters, oceans and soils that make life possible. Instead they should accelerate renewable energy development; ensure universal access to clean water and air, affordable clean energy, and food grown with respect for the land; create jobs paying family-sustaining wages to workers in safe conditions. Wealthy countries must take responsibility for a larger share of emissions reductions to support a global just transition. We must also prepare ourselves to welcome those who will be displaced by COVID and climate change. 

For more information or to register for the Albany event, go here.

For the event in Schenectady, go here.

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