Faith Communities Join the International Call for Climate Action

People of faith have always played a crucial role in the success of moral movements within the United States, from abolition, to civil rights, to the endangered species act. At Climate Week in New York City this September, this tradition continues.
 
On Sept. 23, leaders from around the world will gather in New York City at the United Nations Headquarters for a special summit on climate change. The meeting will be a chance to create momentum for the next major round of international climate talks set for December 2015 in Paris. However, for those outside of these walls, it will be an opportunity to show that ordinary Americans care deeply about how climate change will impact people throughout the world.
 
One way that this support is being expressed is through the People’s Climate March on Sunday, Sept. 21. There, many faith leaders, including some members of the Blessed Tomorrow Executive Committee, will march in solidarity with respected voices from other walks of life, including doctors, nurses, and businessmen, to demonstrate the breadth of support for climate solutions within the United States. Interfaith Power & Light affiliates, as well as several Christian denominations, will be busing in people from throughout the region to participate in the March and other related events.
 
Helping to organize faith communities for the People’s Climate March is GreenFaith, one ofBlessed Tomorrow’s partners. GreenFaith has a webpage providing more information on the event, including connecting people from out of town with housing. The page also offers resources for faith communities who will not be able to attend the March, but would nonetheless like to show their support.
 
The Climate Summit will also be used to mark the launch of a major international initiative to unite diverse faith communities throughout the world around a call for a new international climate treaty. Our Voices, found at ourvoices.net, promises to bring together faith communities in prayer for the success of the next climate negotiations for the sake of creation, future generations, and the poor and vulnerable.
 
At their site, you can commit to involvement, sign up for updates, and access resources to strengthen your engagement. Their global kickoff event in New York City on Wednesday, Sept. 17 will feature energizing speakers, challenging presentations, and music. For more information on how you can join this event, click here.