August’s Top Tip

This month…………………….. Use your voice and get involved in petitions that matter to you!

Freedom of speech is one of the most important tools we have in fighting for climate justice. If those in power don’t know what we as citizens want and don’t have the pressure to act, then change will never get the momentum to happen. If you live in a place where it is safe to use your voice and lobby for change, make use of this right to let our politicians know what is important to us outside of election season and help create laws and policies for a better world.

In this modern age, it is now easier than ever to make a stand. In person marches and peaceful protests are always an important part of our freedom of speech for actively engaging people face to face, so if you have an event nearby you can attend why not give it a go this summer? As well as raising awareness and putting pressure on those in power to do more, you have the opportunity to meet others passionate about curbing climate change and building a sustainable future.

However, if you can’t get to protests due to location/travel, or even if you can attend in person protests, use this August to get familiar with online petitions. Petitions have been and continue to be an integral part of changing policies and our society, whether in regards to the environment, social issues or matters local to you. Sites such as Change.org , 38 degrees and government petitions (https://petition.parliament.uk/) are available online and easy to use, simply browse petitions and support those that matter to you, whether that’s further climate action, banning disposable BBQs or allowing girls to play football at school. Something you think is missing? You can use these sites to start your own petition – set up, share, and aim to get a government response and parliamentary debate. From one voice to a wave of change.

If you allow these sites to contact you by email, it is even easier to check on new petitions relevant to you and get your signature down quickly. You can use your influence to drive change nationally, globally or equally as important, on a local scale, by petitioning your local council to make a better environment where you are.

One voice is not too small to make a difference. Use the structures available to you to join with others and raise awareness of issues to others and our governments. From the comfort of your summer deckchair, with a click you can keep demanding change. Social and environmental justice doesn’t take a summer break ☀🌴🍦