Why school climate strikers are demanding a just transition and job creation

August 6, 2019
Issue 
A School Strike 4 Climate protest in Adelaide on March 15.

The fight for climate justice is inherently about people: First Nations people, workers, young people, all of us.

We know the climate crisis is disproportionately impacting upon working-class people, which is why it is so vital that all of us work together to forge solutions to this huge challenge.

The economic transformation ahead of us will not be easy, but the costs of inaction are too great not to get going now.

As young people, we seek to work in solidarity with workers and unionists. Our fights are one and the same.

This is why we have updated our national school strike demands to incorporate explicit support for workers and fossil fuel communities to fairly transition beyond fossil fuels:

* No new coal, oil and gas projects, including the Adani mine.

* 100% renewable energy generation and exports by 2030.

* Fund a just transition and job creation for all fossil-fuel industry workers.

We see that there are enormous opportunities to create good, safe and secure jobs in response to the climate crisis, for governments to invest in sustainable infrastructure, to properly support communities and to transform our economy in a way that leaves no one behind.

On September 20, by taking time off school and work together around the world, we will show politicians that we all want justice for people and our planet — and we are not going away until we get it.

We will strike in solidarity for everyone who is already being hurt by the climate crisis and everyone who will be impacted if we do not act now.

We are humbled to be collaborating with so many wonderful people to make this moment as powerful as it can be.

September 20 will be a huge show of strength post-election. Together, we will demonstrate to governments that we are going to fight for what is right, and do it together, now, 'til September 20, and beyond.

Together we are stronger. We are ready to stand up for climate justice for everyone.

[For more information visit schoolstrike4climate.com.]

You need Green Left, and we need you!

Green Left is funded by contributions from readers and supporters. Help us reach our funding target.

Make a One-off Donation or choose from one of our Monthly Donation options.

Become a supporter to get the digital edition for $5 per month or the print edition for $10 per month. One-time payment options are available.

You can also call 1800 634 206 to make a donation or to become a supporter. Thank you.