Climate Change Strike
Today, thousands of people flocked to Foley Square in New York City to participate in the climate strike.
People of all ages attended the Climate Change Strike, lead by 17-year-old, climate change activist Greta Thunberg. Having attended today's strike I can say not only am I beyond pleased by to the turn out I am also truly impressed by the dedication of today's youth. I witnessed students who had skipped school, students who had rushed out of school the second they had the chance, adults who had skipped work or left early all to let their voices be heard. I watched our nation's youngest members clutch their signs and show their allegiance to the cause. Thousands of people walked through the smoldering heat in the densely packed streets of New York City because they knew this strike was worth it.
Each speaker was more motivational than the last. But the prime act of the show was the young environmental activist from Sweeden who motivated everyone with her poetic words. Thunberg shared her own stories, highlighting that her childhood had been robbed from her. That she couldn't go to school like a normal teenager but was rather pushed into a life of activism due to the government's neglect. She encouraged everyone to not only take a stand but demand change. Demand change from the government and become the change we wish to see. For once the government destroys this planet the burden of its demise is left to us.
The sheer dedication I witnessed was beyond remarkable. As Thunberg gave her speech individuals sat on the grass floor, practically on top of one another, in order to hear her words. 5 minutes into Thunberg's speech three supporters collapsed from heatstroke. I later heard that many more suffered a similar fate as a result of today's intense heat. Overall I enjoyed being able to see just how many people cared. How many souls were willing to stand up to climate change and demand action. It gave me faith, for when push comes to shove we are a force to be reckoned with and I realized that today. I just hope we can continue making changes in even the simplest of ways.