On June 5th, 45,000 Australians rallied in cities across Australia to say yes to a price on pollution. AYCC volunteers and supporters were out in force – here are some highlights from the day.
“The rally began like many others – with a slow groundswell. At first all we could discern were the faithful few arriving an hour early to be part of the build up. Volunteers sojourned to the far flung extremities of the city to direct the flood of climate supporters enroute to the rally and finally it began.”
- Sean Kelly, Brisbane
“Watching Melbourne mum Jenna Farrington speak about climate action, to the cheers of 5-year-olds to octogenarians, made me realise that this a moment where Australians from all generations are standing up together to say yes. As young people, we can make this call even stronger.”
- Hilary Bowman, Melbourne
“I had the great honour of being one of the speakers at the rally today. And I was blown away standing up on stage, standing face to face with our beautiful, diverse and passionate climate movement. Today, I said that I wouldn’t let the shock jocks and Tony Abbot define my community’s narrative, and that “together, let us not allow them to define our nation’s narrative”. Today, we as a community spoke for ourselves and demanded a future powered by 100% renewable energy. And it was powerful.”
- Ramya Krishnan, Sydney
“I handed out letters in the crowd for people to take, and was touched by the eagerness with which people accepted them. Everyone wanted to do their bit to help – including one family which delegated different streets to different relatives, and a retiree who was going to letterbox his retirement village…
…I know that today isn’t the end, but it re-affirmed a powerful message. We have the power to bring about the change we need. We just need to use it, to work together, and to make our voice heard.”
- Joel Dignam, Adelaide
Thank you to everyone who took part in Say Yes Australia – and remember it doesn’t end here! The AYCC is running a campaign to connect young people with every Federal politician before the carbon price legislation is finalised. To get involved with this incredible campaign, head to the Meet Your Member website.
