Salvationists march for action on climate change
published on 23 Sep 2014
On 23 September, world leaders meet together in New York for the climate summit. Brought together by UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, more than 120 heads of state and government will discuss how to tackle climate change.
Two days ahead of this historic summit, Salvationists took to the streets of London to march alongside over 40,000 people and demand bold action on climate change. More than 2,000 events in over 125 countries around the world made this the biggest global call-to-action on climate change in history.
The diversity of demonstrators was highlighted by The Climate Coalition (of which The Salvation Army is one of over 100 members), encouraging people to share what they love, be it coffee or camping, bees or bananas.
Ban Ki-Moon, speaking at the rally in New York, also noted the wide range of supporters saying, "The march demands that government grow its commitment to adaptation. The diversity of people participating in the climate change march all around the world, sends a strong message that everyone is affected by climate change."
The London march culminated in a rally beside the Houses of Parliament with speakers, including the Bishop of London, the Rt Rev Richard Chartres, fashion designer Dame Vivienne Westwood and actress Emma Thompson addressing the crowds from an open top double-decker bus.
Emma Thompson said, "Climate change is the human rights issue of our time… No more are we the grungy hippies sitting in trees. We are the voice of the future - if there is to be a future."
SHARE WHAT YOU LOVE
Hundreds of thousands of people around the world joined together to demonstrate on Sunday because they all love something that is threatened climate change. Now it’s your turn! Share what you love via our online platform to show that you want to see action on climate change.
You can also order free postcards to get your corps, church, family and friends to share what they love. Order yours from id@salvationarmy.org.uk.
Were you at one of the marches around the world? Share your experiences of the day in the comments section below.