On an unexpectedly rainy morning in Olympia, Washington, a wave of young voices filled the air with a message of hope and urgency. January 30th marked a pivotal event in the climate advocacy calendar for 2024: the Youth Climate Lobby Day. This event, led by Our Climate and supported by Climate Action Families among others, saw Governor Jay Inslee dropping in to show his unwavering support, a testament to the day’s significance.
The core of this gathering was the engagement between young activists, aged 9 to 21, and their legislative representatives. Notably, participants had the opportunity to meet several lawmakers, such as Senator Rebecca Saldana (LD-37) and Representative Tana Senn (LD-41). They conveyed their concerns, hopes, and urged them to support important environmental legislation. They got to experience the accessibility of lawmakers, and the notion that young people have a critical voice in shaping our world.
From crafting shadow boxes that envisioned an ideal climate future to painting canvas bags, these young participants expressed their visions for a greener world in vibrant colors and tangible creations. Walking through the echoey marble hallways of Washington’s capitol buildings, they felt the weight and the potential of their collective action. It was a day of forming connections, not just with peers who share a passion for climate action, but with the very halls of power where change is enacted.
Central to the day’s discussions were bills like the “ReWRAP Act” (HB 2049), aiming to overhaul Washington’s solid waste management by making producers responsible for the lifecycle of their packaging. The push for electric school buses highlighted another critical aspect of the fight against climate change, addressing the health hazards posed by diesel exhaust and the broader environmental impact. These discussions brought to light the tangible steps that can and must be taken to address our environmental challenges.
These young individuals are not just future voters; they are current activists, researchers, and influencers in the environmental movement. Their engagement with lawmakers underscores a powerful message: the youth are not only watching, but they are also acting, demanding a livable future for themselves and generations to come.
As we look forward to the release of a short documentary capturing the essence of this transformative day, we are reminded of the strength in our collective voice. Let’s carry forward the momentum from Olympia, support the critical environmental legislation discussed, and reaffirm our commitment to a sustainable future. Together, we can turn hope into action, for our planet and for the generations that will inherit it.
