Being in the climate strike was the first time I have ever been part of a strike, protest or demonstration (of sorts). Organised by the service leaders of the school, it took place on September 20th as this is the anniversary of when Gretta Thunberg – climate activist – was photographed outside the Swedish parliament protesting the lack of action to combat climate change.

Although good in intention, i found that the protest lacked essential organisation. For instance, the main aim of the service leaders in the protest, was to obtain signatures for “the pledge”. So at 7AM, holding signs, half the school was outside chanting “Sign the pledge” and only once students had made it inside the school and asked where to sign, was it revealed that the pledge was not actually present, but would be presented later in the day.

After having completed 2 ½  blocks, we left during block 3 and congregated in the auditorium. The terms of “the pledge” were revealed as:

• No meat thursdays in the cafeteria
• A carbon tax on all athletes travelling to SAISA sport events
• Air conditioning use not to go below 21 degrees

I found these terms to be quite reasonable, although something which i would not have enforced without the presence of a pledge and others urging me to do so. I guess that reflects the nature of climate action.

I was quite surprised at the negative comments towards the pledge that my peers voiced. Although I disagree slightly with most of the terms of the pledge, I think that they are not only necessary, but essential to the future. As without such action, the impacts of climate change are unpredictable but certain to be horrific.

I would like to play an influential role next time if we ever decide to have a second climate strike, as i wish to bring my ideas and edits to the pledge.