This Friday, September 20th, join millions of young people and adults across the globe in the #ClimateStrike, a youth-led movement demanding climate justice now.

Last year, then 15 year old Greta Thunberg caught the attention of the world as she protested against the Swedish parliament for its inaction and complacency in the face of climate change.  In line with, the now international movement, Fridays for Future, the September 20th and September 28th Global Climate Strikes will be an opportunity for everyone to openly demonstrate their support and demand for immediate action in regards to the current climate crisis.

Why should I care?

Affirming Genesis 1 and our call to be caretakers of all God’s creation, the United Methodist Church’s Book of Discipline says, “All creation is the Lord’s, and we are responsible for the ways in which we use and abuse it. Water, air, soil, minerals, energy resources, plants, animal life, and space are to be valued and conserved because they are God’s creation and not solely because they are useful to human beings. God has granted us stewardship of creation. We should meet these stewardship duties through acts of loving care and respect,” (Social Principles, ¶ 160).

Unfortunately, the current climate crisis and emergency is largely attributed to human civilization and human disobedience to the call to care for all of God’s creation (Genesis 1).  Furthermore, the impacts of climate change around the world are especially felt by those living in poverty as human-created changes to weather patterns cause stronger, more intense, frequent storms, droughts and wildfires including but not limited to this year’s Hurricane Dorian and the 2018 California wildfires. These events cause those in their path to leave their homes in search of better food supply and economic opportunity, leading to increased poverty, conflict, and hunger.

Environmental Racism

Environmental Racism is the way white supremacy shows up in environmental justice and/or climate justice work that systematically contributes to the increased inequity towards communities of color and communities living in poverty.  The recent water crisis in Flint, Michiganand the Dakota Access Pipeline in Standing Rock, North Dakota serve as evidence of environmental racism.

How can I get involved?

Find your local community and walk in solidarity by participating in the youth-led #ClimateStrike this Friday, September 20th.  Whether it be protesting unjust legislations that undermine climate justice in your city or raising awareness of the climate crisis with family and friends, do what you’re able because you have been called by our Creator God to care for this earth and all its creatures.

Click here to learn how you can be an ally to young climate strikers.

Please share widely in your networks, local church, MFSA Regional Community newsletter and/or website and facebook page.  Stay connected and continue the conversation on climate justice by following MFSA’s posts in the coming days.