DEMOCRACY in all of its glory was on display in Leeton during a climate change strike.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
The strike was organised by Leeton school students as part of global action to demand action be taken on climate change.
Around 30 students left the classroom for two hours on September 20, while 30 residents also joined the strike.
"Many more people than I expected turned up," rally organiser Maria Tynan said.
"It made me hopeful to see that so many people in the community know that this is a real issue and are willing to support it."
Millions of like-minded students and residents from across the globe participated in similar action on the day.
Some took to the streets to make their voices heard, while others, held rallies in their town's public spaces.
In Leeton the group gathered in Mountford Park to discuss climate changes and what can be done to help the cause.
"The goal of the day was mostly to catch the community's attention and kick-start the discussion, so I definitely feel the goal was accomplished," Miss Tynan said.
"The other goal was to inform those people who did come about climate change, its dangers, and how we can help.
MORE NEWS
"I hope that everyone who was there got something out of it."
With the global strike capturing the attention of governments all over the world, Miss Tynan was hopeful the message was getting through.
"It felt like we were all part of a whole, not just an isolated group," she said.
"Especially with over a million people worldwide, I think it brought global attention to the issue.
"Having the climate strike in Leeton also really showed the community that the youth of Leeton also care, and won't be going down without a fight.
"I can't wait for the next day of action.
"Since this was just our first strike, I'm hoping we will get more people as the strikes continue.
"And, hopefully, something happens."
Australia's overall national emissions rose by 3.9 per cent from 2013 to 2018.
****
While you're with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you're up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.
