Calgary group takes to street demanding climate action from all levels of government
Posted Nov 8, 2021 8:25 pm.
A small group of Calgarians took over part of Memorial Drive at 10 Street NW on Monday evening.
Armed with signs and posters, their message? Demanding that our governments take climate change seriously.
This comes just a day before Mayor Jyoti Gondek’s motion to declare a climate emergency goes to the executive committee and, should it go through, the group says they will hold council to their word.
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Those protesting on Monday say while there’s a lot of climate talk going on around the world, there isn’t enough action.
“This is a critical turning point for the world, for Canada, for Alberta,” said David Swann, a spokesperson for Extinction Rebellion.
“We’re demanding leadership from all levels of government to show that they’re really committed to reducing our carbon footprint to having our carbon budget, committing to timelines, and delivering for the first time on some of those timelines.”
Swann adds he’s delighted Gondek is declaring a climate emergency.
Council will debate it at their first meeting on Nov. 15 and, if it passes, Calgary will join a growing list of Canadian cities that are taking climate action seriously.
Gondek says a climate emergency is not just about lowering greenhouse gas emissions, but also attracting investment and creating new jobs.
Her office says right now, there is no higher priority.
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There were only about eight people in attendance at Monday’s protest, but nonetheless, they say it’s important to show up in hopes that it inspires other Calgarians to make a change.
They believe not just Calgary, but Alberta could be a global leader and wish the province sent more delegates to COP26.
“Sending a larger delegation to COP26 would’ve been a good faith showing in that direction saying ‘hey we’re Alberta we’re here, we’re leaders in this field, we’re here to listen learn and contribute,’” said Sarah Flynn with Extinction Rebellion.
