On Wednesday 2nd February the largest climate civil disobedience in Australia’s history occurred in Federal Parliament. People from all walks of life came together for a powerful gathering holding our elected leaders to account.
Led by traditional custodians, pacific islanders and communities impacted by living on the frontlines of climate change, over 250 gathered in Canberra for several days preparation, action, and learning. As we occupied Parliament House the staff got quite the surprise as hundreds of people commenced their own Peoples Parliament – hearing from those with most to lose (and most to learn from) from climate change.
The well organised event saw more than 200 people dragged from Parliament simply for speaking their mind in the foyer. No arrests were made.
You can check the Peoples Parliament website and still send messages of support, and read others here. Some of the extensive media coverage included Channel 9, Sydney Morning Herald, with Sky News and ABC24 broadcasting live ensuring every politican in the place became well aware of the protest as it unfolded, our live commentary is featured in Junkee, and our photos here. It even made international news.
It was a powerful day indeed, with many moved to tears. As the diversity of our movement gets stronger at every action, it seems we might be finally building the relationships for the long haul to change everything.
If you are interested in more action in Melbourne you may want to participate in Flood the System training for the event coming up next week.
Our movement is growing.