Power to the people.
On Friday September 20, school students skipped class once again to protest government inaction on climate change. This time, however, everyone was invited. In more than 100 locations throughout Australia, 300,000 workers, university students, educators and trade unionists ditched their usual activities and joined the fight for climate justice.
The strikes were joyous, energetic and featured some brilliantly witty placards. But most importantly, they were fuelled by a collective sentiment of outrage. With only 100 companies responsible for 71 per cent of global emissions, it’s obvious that using a keep cup and metal straws just won’t cut it. To safeguard human survival and the planet’s health, we need radical change. By taking to the streets and disrupting business as usual, we can demand that meaningful and immediate action be taken to tackle climate change.
Tonnes of musicians were on board with the strikes, with artists such as Missy Higgins and Lisa Mitchell marching alongside over 100,000 others in Melbourne. There was also live music at some rallies, with big names like Montaigne and Jack River performing at the Sydney strike.
First initiated by Swedish school student Greta Thunberg, these global climate strikes have already attracted millions to the streets, and the energetic activism is only growing stronger. Environmental activist groups like Extinction Rebellion are now gaining traction in cities all over the world. Beginning on Monday October 7, the group has organised an entire week of international activism.
Activists are also planning a mass blockade of the International Mining and Resources Conference happening in Melbourne from Monday October 28 to Thursday October 31. This four-day event is hosting delegates from some of the most powerful mining companies (referred to as ‘climate criminals’ by activists) who cash in on the immense environmental and social devastation caused by mining.
There’s never been a more important time to get involved and stand with those who’ve already borne the brunt of our destabilising climate. Our government has proven itself to give fuck-all about the environment, so it’s time we took action into our own hands and demand better. Remember, there’s no such thing as music on a dead planet.
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