Concerned citizens in Victoria marched in tandem with others from around the world on Saturday as part of a global day of action coinciding with the COP26 UN global climate summit in Glasgow.
The local event, organized by Climate Justice Victoria, saw about 70 people take part in a 40-minute long march from Centennial Square at 11 a.m. — timed to match similar demonstrations taking place across the world. The global events were organized by the U.K.-based COP26 Coalition.
Vancouver and Toronto were among the cities where similar events were held.
“The event was a push to get the message out for the need for a change in economic policy — both federally and internationally — to make climate justice a reality,” said D’Arcy Briggs, spokesperson for Climate Justice Victoria.
“Although today’s march was the most visible action, we have also been working hard in the background to make a transition to a climate friendly economy and to build a safe and healthy world.”
The group also endorses an end to urban highway expansion and having public transit switch to using renewable energy, such as electricity.
After the march, the group stayed to listen to a cross-section of speakers, including representatives from Our Earth Our Future, a youth environmental group.
Briggs said that they received positive feedback from the public during their event, with many motorists honking their horns in support.
parrais@timescolonist.com
