News / climate action
Rebel mothers unite in Bristol for climate justice
Mothers will gather in Bristol on Saturday to highlight climate inaction.
The planned peaceful protest is sandwiched between Friday’s International Women’s Day and Mothers Day on Sunday.
It is part of the Global Mothers Rebellion for Climate Justice organised by Extinction Rebellion.
is needed now More than ever
The Mothers Rebellion is based on the human connection to Mother Earth and works to create the necessary changes to keep the planet healthy so all inhabitants can thrive – photo: XR Bristol
‘Mothers, caregivers, aunties, grandmothers and their allies’ from Bristol and surrounding areas will form a circle of protest united for a fossil free future. They will highlight the disproportionate impact of climate change on women, as reported by the United Nations.
It is the fourth annual global Mothers Rebellion, with 62 groups in 26 countries taking part this year.
“We’re uniting as mothers this weekend to raise awareness of the problems facing kids in the future, and to take a stand against the woeful inaction on climate change from our leaders,” said Bristol event organiser and mother Ava Lorenc.
The Bristol XR mothers gathered in November 2023 to call for action on climate change – photo: XR Bristol
“Time is running out, and we need to be able to tell our kids that we’re doing everything we can to make a better future for them, and for all children. We know a lot of parents and children in Bristol are worried about the climate crisis, and we want to show them that they’re not alone, and to offer hope that if we come together, we can be a powerful force.
“Our Mothers Rebellion circle is peaceful, inclusive and friendly.”
Hannah Hunter, a mother travelling to the protest from Newport in Wales, added: “I’m planning to attend not just for my children, but for all children globally suffering at the hand of the climate crisis. As a mother, I worry daily about the future that is set out for them and I can’t stand by without doing whatever I can.”
Mothers Rebellion aims to turn the grief and frustration caused by lacking political response on climate change into action. Hannah agreed that taking part can help to alleviate climate-related anxiety.
“One thing people can do is sit with us in solidarity and peaceful protest, calling on global leaders to stop the investments in new fossil fuel projects, and to honour our children’s human right to a safe, liveable future.
The Global Mothers Rebellion movement has been active since 2022 and the last protest took place in Bristol in 2023 – photo: Charlie Watts
“I personally have found taking collective action extremely rewarding, and meeting other like-minded parents has been a great comfort to me. I’d encourage anyone who feels drawn to it, to take that first step into climate action.”
The Rebellion will gather from 10am – 12pm at the Cascade Steps near the Watershed in Central Bristol.
Participants are invited to bring placards stating why they are attending, including the names of their children where appropriate.
Main photo: Extinction Rebellion Bristol
This piece of independent journalism is supported by the Bristol24/7 public and business membership.
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