Over 785000 people from every corner of the world joined Sunday’s marches – from the islands of the South Pacific, to major cities like Sydney, London, Nairobi and New York. People all joined together to send a clear message: we care about our planet and what we are doing to it. We want action now.
Here in Ireland, over 5000 people marched in Dublin, whilst over a 1000 marched in Belfast, Cork, Naas and Galway. The atmosphere at the Dublin March was one of solidarity. Unions, parishes, faith leaders, community groups, students – everyone marched in a spirit of hope. There were people from all walks of life, with many many families coming out despite the storm warnings. Thankfully the weather held out for the march and many people commented that they felt empowered by standing together in solidarity.
As I stood on the stage and addressed the crowd, it was evident that people are ready to make changes themselves but want leaders to step up too. To do that, we need to make our voices heard! Climate change can often seem like a remote issue which leaves us powerless – but on Sunday people across Ireland found a voice. It felt like something new was born: the germ of a movement that will not stop now. The march reminded me of what theologian Richard Rhor calls “third force wisdom” – the future that is seeking to be born, rather than what is dying.
In addressing climate change, the key thing is to focus on the change we need to see and which Pope Francis has pointed out to us in Laudato Sí. It is a future of hope which is about to burst into being – the marches on Sunday were a flourishing of that hope.
If you would like to see a video of the march, click the link below.
http://charityandjustice.net/2015/11/30/why-well-never-be-rich-enough-to-tackle-climate-change/
Following Sunday’s march, Lorna Gold was interviewed on icatholic. To see the interview click the link below.
