Lifestyle

Why I’m going to DC for the People’s Climate March – and you should, too!

I’m heading to DC for the People’s Climate March on Saturday.

Yes, last Saturday was the Science March. Yes, there was one in Philly. Yes, people held signs related to climate change.

But why bother traveling a few hours during a beautiful Philly weekend?

As the Washington Post explains why this climate march is different than previous ones, “Now, the task is full-on resistance.”.

Saturday marks 100 days of #45 in office. The administration has begun to dismantle Obama-era environmental protections, ease regulations on the fossil fuel industry and consider pulling out of the Paris climate agreement.

Climate change is the most pressing issue of our lifetime. Climate change threatens our health, air and waterways.

We can’t deny science. We can’t deny climate change.

As I was reminded during “Before the Flood” during the Philadelphia Environmental Film Fest last weekend, climate change-denying politicians typically are deep in pockets of oil & gas industry lobbyists. All they need to do is cause doubt.

It’s working

Although I jokingly said 2017 is the year I became an activist, I’m not alone. The public’s voice is being heard. The takedown of Obamacare failed due to backlash at town halls. America was founded as a democracy, governing by the people.

I believe that my voice matters. I’m heading to DC to show that this is important enough to take an entire day of my insane, busy life to unite with fellow Americans and send a message. The US can still do the right thing when it comes to Climate Change – and I don’t want to be the one sitting on the sidelines during history.

We have resources to use 100% renewable energy. Coal isn’t coming back. Fossil fuels aren’t the answer. If Costa Rica can run on nearly 100% renewable energy.. and Sweden, China and Germany can lead the way, we can too.

After all, this isn’t about the climate. It’s about our existence as human beings, now and for future generations.

Julie Hancher

Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia.

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