On September 24, the “Climate Emergency: This is NOT a drill” rally organized by the Council of Canadians, Fredericton Chapter, took to the New Brunswick Legislature to demand action by the New Brunswick government.
The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change recently released a report stating that the current situation is a “code red for humanity” which requires immediate action to reduce emissions.
The organizers, along with over 300 individuals, called for the Higgs government to do everything in their power to reduce emissions in the province.
Green Party of New Brunswick Leader, David Coon, spoke on behalf of the rally along with Fredericton Mayor, Kate Rogers. Both local leaders brought a message of urgency to the front steps of the Legislature.
This is the first time a Mayor of Fredericton has attended a climate change rally and organizers see this as a step in the right direction.
Organizer Margo Sheppard hopes to have Mayor Rogers establish a “Mayor’s Taskforce on Climate Change” to implement many of the actions described on the City website.
“The City of Fredericton has created some fantastic reports on how we can come together to lower our collective emissions,” said Sheppard.
The rally organizers were cheerful and eager to spread their message. While passionate, the rally was equal parts friendly and welcoming.
Attendees were encouraged to sign letters addressed to government officials expressing their personal anxieties about climate change.
Organizers also brought burgers and homegrown produce to feed hungry attendees. Gary Guild was in charge of the barbeque and also quite enthusiastic about the “whale signs” wielded by rally-goers.
Overall, Guild and Sheppard both agreed the rally was a ringing success and feel confident that their message is making headway in local government.