A striking day for York’s youth

We sent work experience student, Callum Willis, to cover York’s second YouthStrike4Climate today…

Today (15 March) the youth of York took action once again with a second strike in favour of the Government doing more against climate change. Many more students banded together compared to last months turn out to show that the government must change their apathetic attitude to the environment. While being at the demonstration you could see many signs with catchy slogans or jokes on them. The sad reality however is, this is no joke. This is our future.

When asked why she was striking, Cecile Lansford  – age 15, replied that she was there because “the government is not taking enough positive action to combat climate change”. She said it was important that she and other members of the younger generation were there because “Young people are the ones with the least say in politics and the ones who will be affected most”. Given this, it’s seen by York’s youngsters that striking is the best way to make sure the government listen to us.

Continuing the idea that these issues are most relevant to young people, she was asked if she thought older generations could  be doing more to help. Speaking with the frustration and anger , she added: “adults can support the strikes and the movement by allowing their children to strike and demonstrating in solidarity with us.” She also went on to say “Adults can pay for green energy and limit their own travel while voting for parties with an eco friendly manifesto”.

The aim of the strike seemed clear to Cecile: “in the hope that the government will declare a national climate crisis, commit to ensuring that the global temperature doesn’t rise more than 1.5 C and invest in alternatives to fossil fuels”. Despite this seeming like a lot, it’s just what is necessary as an attempt to stop the impending doom. 

While strikes like this bring unity and hope to those who were present and those who were not allowed to come, you have to ask, will it be enough? The answer is simple really in that the movement can only get bigger and stronger filled with more individuals who care. And at the end of the day, thats exactly what we need. Care.

Written by Callum Willis