Nelson Embraces Climate Events During 'Week for Future'
By Nelson Daily Staff
Climate Change supporters are gearing up for a week of events to bring awareness to the global crisis.
Starting with the global climate strike on Friday, September 20, led by local Fridays For Future youth, communities around the world are continuing to focus on the the climate crisis with a Week for Future. Nelson’s Week for Future highlights a number of events organized by different community groups.
The timing for the week corresponds to the United Nations Climate Summit in New York on Monday, September 23, when countries are being asked to dramatically increase their ambition to align with the science of keeping global warming to 1.5C.
“We are all so fortunate to live in such a vibrant community that sees the many interconnections between the climate crisis and other issues,” said Jade Osecki, one of the high school students leading the local Fridays For Future team.
”We encourage people who are not usually engaged in the climate issue to participate in both the Friday September 20 strike and in some of the many events happening the following week.”
Here’s a brief run down of Nelson’s events. Look for the Facebook event page and community calendars for more details.
Friday, September 20:
Join the Fridays For Future global climate strike in front of Nelson City Hall, starting at 10:30 am. All ages welcome! This full day includes a march (noon), speakers, art, booths by many organizations working for a better world, afternoon workshops, and ends with a family friendly dance party, 7-9 pm. Make a difference, learn and have fun.
Saturday, September 21:
“Climate Action for Peace” is the theme of this year’s International Day of Peace event, at 1 pm in the Nelson Rotary Shelter in Lakeside Park, hosted by KAIROS, an interfaith group that works for environmental justice in Canada and the world, and KRUNA (Kootenay Region United Nations Association).
The event has a focus on education and opportunities for action, and includes speakers, music, and dance.
Sunday, September 22:
Climate Vigil, hosted by Nelson Interfaith Climate Action Collaborative, Nelson United Church (602 Silica Street), 7 p.m. All are welcome.
Tuesday, September 24:
“Shifting to Solutions: How to have meaningful conversations about climate change.”
Do you find it difficult to talk about the climate crisis with friends and family? At this event, hosted by Citizens’ Climate Lobby, you will be introduced to communication techniques that help connect and engage on this urgent, but sometimes overwhelming topic. You will also be presented with a few ways to delve deeper. St. Saviour’s Anglican Church (701 Ward Street) 7-8:30 p.m. Free or by donation.
Wednesday, September 25:
“Federal All Candidates Reverse Forum” (Kootenay Columbia riding) is hosted by Nelson at its Best, 7-9 p.m., Nelson United Church (Lower Hall), 602 Silica Street.
This forum is “reverse” because the public is given a chance to speak while candidates listen around key federal-related social issues affecting our community, including the climate crisis. Other topics include strengthening health care, poverty and inequality, First Nations / Truth and Reconciliation, and economic development and technological disruption.
September 28:
“Grief, Grit & Gratitude – Developing Climate Change Resilience in the Face of Climate Crisis” is a workshop that offers an opportunity for expressing and normalizing the many emotions which can arise from the climate crisis: grief, shock, anger, guilt, etc. This will be a focused time within a safe space to anchor our connection with what deeply matters within ourselves and with the world we care about. Taghum Hall, 1-4 pm. Pre-registration required: http://bit.ly/grief-grit-gratitude. Suggested donation: $10-25 (students free).
“We hope that people will use this week to learn about the myriad issues surrounding the climate crisis,” said Laura Sacks, who co-leads the local chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby and is helping tie these events together.
“It’s a great opportunity for those who are concerned but have not been actively involved to check out the many positive things going on in the community.”
Media contact: Laura Sacks, sacks.laura@gmail.com, (250) 399-4313
