Oxfam supports young people in School Strike 4 Climate

14 March 2019

Oxfam New Zealand is standing in solidarity with young people taking action against climate change in the School Strike 4 Climate.

Executive Director Rachael Le Mesurier said: “We are proud of the young people who are standing up for what’s right. It’s inspiring to see such leadership from students committed to building a better future, when governments across the world have been dragging their heels to take action on climate change, and here at home our parliament is not giving the urgency needed to the Zero Carbon Bill.

“If we all want to save our planet, and our future, there is no choice but to take bold and urgent action now. People across the Pacific are already facing the consequences of climate change, with rising sea levels, droughts and sea acidification forcing dramatic changes to their ways of life. We are also seeing the impact here in New Zealand with an increasing number of extreme weather events.”

“It’s crucial we support this amazing initiative led by young people all around the world in what is the defining issue of our time.”

The young New Zealanders who have organised the strike in New Zealand are demanding action from the government to keep global warming to no more than 1.5 degrees.

“We at Oxfam stand with these young people fighting for their futures. They’re the ones who’ll have to deal with the worst consequences. We can’t in good conscience turn a blind eye to inaction any longer. These young people are saying ‘enough’, and it’s time for us all to listen.”

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