Guelph high school students are planning a sit-down outside Guelph City Hall next week in support of a push to get city council to declare a state of climate emergency.
The Youth Climate Sit-Down takes place Friday, May 3, in Market Square starting at around 1:45 p.m.
"Youth around the world are demanding that climate action is taken on a global scale, and change starts at the local level," says a news release from the organizers.
"The IPCC report has announced that we have only 12 short years to act now before we enter irreversible environmental damage. In light of our current state, the youth of Guelph are demanding change from our municipal government. The youth of Guelph are demanding that this action starts at the local level."
Participating students will walk out of class at 1 p.m. then make their way to Market Square for a rally that starts at roughly 1:45 p.m. The event will last until approximately 3:30 p.m.
"Once all schools are gathered at City Hall, students will sit down in silent protest, occupying the space. There will be a period of time allotted for speakers to share their thoughts, there will be a petition to sign. Community members are invited to meet students at City Hall at around 1:30pm."
"Students will be stating their list of climate action demands to ensure that the declaration of climate emergency is not just symbolic, but requires immediate and significant action.This matter is urgent. This is our future. We should all be in agreement about this larger issue," the news release said.
