“I’m writing letters because I’m concerned about my children’s future,” replied Jayme Jones when asked why she was participating in Castlegar’s first Write for the Climate event.
The event was held last Thursday evening at the Castlegar & District Public Library.
Most participants had similar reasons for writing their letters. Concern for their children and grandchildren and sustainable jobs were common themes. Letters were focused on meeting our Paris climate targets, improving Federal carbon pricing, and phasing out fossil fuel subsidies.
Fifty letters were sent to Federal Ministers, opposition critics, and local Member of Parliament Richard Cannings.
Even though this topic is very serious, participants had fun connecting with each other at the community table over tea and snacks. Since the letters were handwritten, there were also many laughs over the almost forgotten art of penmanship.
Write for the Climate was sponsored by the local chapter of Citizens’ Climate Lobby (CCL). CCL is a non-profit, non-partisan, grassroots advocacy organization creating the political will for a livable world.
“When meeting with Members of Parliament from all parties, I was surprised to learn that they do not hear from many Canadians on the critical issue of climate change,” said Laura Sacks, who co-leads the local CCL chapter. “By organizing an event with all materials, including well-documented talking points, it makes it easier for us to write those letters. Otherwise, it’s easy to procrastinate with all the distractions at our own homes.”
“We are most grateful to the Castlegar Library for hosting this event and encouraging citizen engagement,” added Sacks.
If you are interested in hosting a similar event, you can contact Laura at ccl.westkootenay@gmail.com.