3/2/19
Toward a Better Future: Transforming the Climate Crisis
8:45-9am
Morning Observance and Poetry
"Multiple Choice Test after the Hurricane" by Jackson Neal, Houston Youth Poet Laureate and National Youth Poet Laureate Ambassador
"Young Activists Speak Out"
Panel
Juan Elizondo, 31-year-old from Houston, Texas, Partnerships Coordinator and Instructional Specialist at Furr High School
Jayden Foytlin, 15-year-old from Rayne, Louisiana, an indigenous climate activist, and a plaintiff in the case, Juliana v. United States
Nadia Nazar, 16-year old from Baltimore, Maryland, Co-Founder, Co-Executive Director, and Art Director of Zero Hour
Moderator: Estrella Sainburg, GreenFaith Organizer
The people who are the least responsible for climate change are the ones who will be the most impacted long-term. Knowing this, they are taking the lead in making their demands for a livable climate known to the leaders of our cities and countries. This panel will explore what young leaders from different parts of the country are doing to lead us toward a better climate future. Examples include a class action lawsuit against the government, a national youth-led protest march, and joining local advocacy groups and empowering young people to make change.
This program was a part of "Toward a Better Future: Transforming the Climate Crisis."
The Rothko Chapel and University of St. Thomas hosted a three day symposium exploring the current climate crisis, its impact on vulnerable communities, and mitigation efforts being implemented locally and nationally.
Given the global interconnectedness of the climate crisis, the symposium explored how best to move to a zero emission, low carbon economy through the engagement of presenters from religious, Indigenous, public health, energy, government, philanthropic, academic and arts sectors and communities. A central focus was on individual and institutional actions, practices and policies that must be taken to create a more livable and equitable future.