Rochester Climate Strike 2019
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Residents of Rochester took to the streets on September 27, 2019 to demand action from government and industry to address climate change. It was held in solidarity with Climate Strikes around nation and the world. It was organized primarily by local high school students following the model set by Swedish activist Greta Thunberg who recently drew 250,000 to a speech in New York City. It was not limited to just young people however. Before leaving City Hall the crowd was treated to a concert by the Raging Grannies. A large petition was handed to Rochester Mayor Lovely Warren.
The march consisted of three other stops, all at the offices of entities who have much power to do something about the climate crisis. The next stop was at the Monroe County Office Building on Main Street where activist Liam Smith laid much of the blame for inaction on the climate at the feet of the Republican party. The Legislature will be meeting again on October 8.
The next stop was outside the offices of Rochester Gas and Electric. While Rochester has one of the cleanest electrical grids in the nation, it is still heavily reliant on combustion of carbon based fuels. Activists would like to see a larger commitment to renewable sources. A call was also put out to Governor Cuomo and the New York State Public Services Commission to lower rates by utilizing more free energy sources.
The march then headed to the Federal Building on State Street where farmer Erin Bullock delivered a presentation on organic farming. Not only could organic farming provide less toxic and healthier food, it can also remove carbon from the air. Unfortunately the Trump administration is moving things in the wrong direction nationally, making it all the more important to act local and also vote for candidates who support positive change.
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