by Roy Murphy
Climate vigil religious leaders holding “lights for Lima” in Union Square
(Photo: Roy Murphy / NLN)
NEW YORK — December 7, 2014. More than 100 protesters of all faiths held a candlelit vigil in Union Square on the eve of the latest round on international talks in Lima, Peru on climate change organized by the United Nations — ovr 1,000 vigils were planned around the world under the rubric #lightforlima in Washington DC, London, Canada, India, UK, Germany, Nigeria, Israel, the Philippines, Brazil, Australia, Japan and Bangladesh and other countries.
Climate justice is a moral issue
(Photo: Roy Murphy / NLN)
In New York about a dozen religious leaders said a few words and a prayer for the success of the latest round of climate change talks. They also honored the memory of those who have lost their lives pursuing climate justice, including 57 environmental activists murdered in Peru since 2002.
Organizer Catherine Skopic cited in particular the dangers offered by the Trans Pacific Partnership (TPP), an international so-called “trade” agreement which will prevent local people from defending their environment against global corporations. The agreement is being negotiated in secret by government agencies and corporate representatives.
Protestors for action to combat climate change in Dag Hammarskjold Square
(Photo: Roy Murphy / NLN)
In a related story - on December 10, International Human Rights Day, about 50 protesters of all ages gathered beside the United Nations in New York to demand that world governments take decisive action to combat climate change. The meeting, organized by 350NYC.org and co-sponsored by more than 30 other groups, came together despite the light snow and cold weather.
Amongst the speakers were two youngsters, Xiuhtezcatl Roske-Martinez, 14, and his brother Itzcuauhtli, 11 years old. They are indigenous environmental activists from Boulder, Colorado, who were brought up in the Aztec tradition. They have spent most of their young lives dedicated to protecting the environment. “I gave my first speech at a climate change rally when I was six years old,” said Xiuhtezcatl.
Xiuhtezcatl (left) & Itzcuauhtli Roske-Martinez
(Photo: Roy Murphy / NLN)
On October 27, 45 days ago, Itzcuauhtli decided to make himself heard by not speaking. His brother said hundreds of children from around the world are sending photos wearing green wrist bands of support.
Roy Murphy is a regular contributor to NLN and a member of the National Writers Union, UAW Local 1981
