This week, in preparation for the upcoming climate negotiations in Paris, the Sierra Student Coalition participated in Conference of the Youth (COY). COY is a gathering of young people from all around the world to work together, learn from each other, and collaborate in preparation for COP21.
COY is a bustling space of action. During my time wandering the halls, I saw youth from across the world sharing their cultures through song and dance. I also heard many moving stories from youth about what they stand to lose (or have already lost) in the face of climate change, as well as many inspiring stories of resistance to the oppressive forces at fault. However, I was most impressed by the youth working to build power during and after the negotiations.
At COY, the Sierra Student Coalition had the opportunity to present about the Online Youth Exchange -- our program that pairs youth organizers from around the world to foster partnerships and develop their organizing and leadership skills. The SSC is excited to expand this program beyond its current U.S.–China base, so it was wonderful to see members from Afghani, Indian, Egyptian, French, and Taiwanese youth delegations excited about getting involved.
There were also many moving workshops and actions from other delegations. I had the opportunity to attend a workshop on racism in the environmental movement held by Sustaining All Life. This powerful workshop connected the stories of youth from Hawaii to Kenya and was a great introduction to fighting against racism in the environmental movement internationally. I also enjoyed the powerful message our fellow U.S. youth delegates from SustainUS created through their campaign focusing on including a long-term commitment to phase out fossil fuels by 2050 in the Paris Agreement. Many people around COY showed their support by painting a “0” around their right eye.
Members of our delegation have been active in YOUNGO’s (the UNFCCC observer constituency of youth non-governmental organizations) working groups. COY allowed space for groups to discuss key issues for youth in the negotiation text, including human rights, loss and damage, intergenerational equity, and long-term goals. Supporting strong stances in these areas of the text is key to the Sierra Student Coalition’s commitment to climate justice and protecting our future.
North American youth had the opportunity to connect and collaborate at a North American breakout session. Among the breakout groups focusing on food, energy, advocacy, and identity as a North Americans, a plan for engagement at COP21 has begun to solidify. The SSC delegation is energized to begin our work at COP21, and we know that the youth of the world are up to the challenge.
Edited by Emma Ronai-Durning and Katie Mimnaugh