Climate Road Show Visits Martinborough.

Extinction Rebellion has a fierce sound to it but local supporters Jude Brown and Bruce Congalton are keen that people don’t get the wrong impression.

Yes, members are very serious about their cause –addressing the climate crisis – but they are an essentially a positive, hopeful and non-violent direct action group. 

The Climate Roadshow, a collaboration between Extinction Rebellion and Aotearoa Climate Emergency, stopped in The Square last week on it’s way to Parliament to present a series of demands: declaration of a national climate emergency, a Citizens’ Assembly on climate next year, and a green economic recovery post-COVID.  

“People are crying out for change but there is a disconnect between this and what politicans are willing to go out on a limb for.  We want to make sure people’s voices are heard and that politicians are listening.”       

With that in mind the caravan was talking to and filming people all over the country.  Martinborough resident and olive grower Ray Lilley was one of those interviewed and expressed his wish for a reset in the way our environment was managed.

For Extinction Rebellion, COVID 19 has demonstrated that where we perceive an immediate and significant threat we can respond swiftly and effectively.   They would love to see the same sense of urgency applied to climate change but recognise it is much harder to for people to see it in the same way.    That’s why they believe the government needs to lead on this.

“It’s been heartening to see how Wairarapa has responded” says organiser Caril Cowan.   Wairarapa is the only area we have visited where every town had an active Extinction Rebellion presence.” 

For more information:  Website: Extinction Rebellion Aotearoa, Facebook: Extinction Rebellion Wairarapa (Group)