At the start of the 2019-2020 school year, Climate Generation’s Youth Environmental Activists of MN brought together teens from dozens of schools across the state.
Students who care about climate justice spent the day sharing ideas and building trust for the work ahead.
Students gathered at Roosevelt High School, where YEA! MN Core members Shahad Geer and Keriann Cooper help lead the school’s Green Team.They and other Core youth led the activities of the day, from getting-to-know you conversations to workshops, and painting a portable mural.
Workshop topics included Climate Change 101, Environmental Racism, How to Talk to Your Legislator (we called legislators right then and there!), and Protest.
The Climate Generation team was thrilled that many partner organizations joined for the day. Youth with the Kitty Anderson Youth Science Center environmental justice crew, the Asian American Organizing Project, and the MN Youth Climate Strike all participated, making the day that much more powerful.
Pledging to Take Action
At the end of the day, youth committed to taking action.
89% of students committed to talk with their family, and
56% of students committed to talk with elected officials.
What Students Said About the Kickoff
“I learned today that it’s super easy to contact legislators!”
“I felt powerful talking with other empowered youth.”
“I’m not the only one trying to do something.”
Attendees Jordan and Meera also wrote a reflection blog of their own about the day. Read more here!
This was just the beginning of climate action this school year. Youth with Climate Generation host monthly meetings for young folks who want to get involved.
