Kingston students take to the street to strike for climate action

Sparked by a global movement and following weekly strikes in front of City Hall, over 600 students and residents from across Kingston gathered at market square to show support for climate action before marching through the downtown core.

“Striking is crucial to show the importance and urgency of the climate emergency. It raises awareness, proves that there are people who care but most importantly brings together communities globally,” said Aidan Tomkinson of Fridays for Future who coordinated the gathering in partnership with 350 Kingston.

The strike, referred to as a funeral for the earth, opened with remarks from Dianne Saxe, an Environmental Lawyer and the former Environmental Commissioner of Ontario.

“Canada’s a big polluter. Canada is one of the top 10 climate polluters in the world — not just per capita, but also as an entire country,” Saxe said as part of her remarks. “Kingston has a real opportunity to be a leader,” she added, “but you need to turn the [climate emergency] declaration into action.”

The march ended on Ontario street before marching through City Hall for additional remarks. MPP Ian Arthur along with city councillors Mary Rita Holland, Rob Hutchinson and Jim Neill were seen parading along with the group.

More climate strike coverage to come, stay tuned at www.Kingstonist.com.