BY SAMINA AHMED
On September 20, 2019, people of all ages, especially the youth, flooded the streets of Foley Square as well as around City Hall, to protest the most pressing issue of their time: climate change. They held handmade creative and colorful signs while proudly chanting “SHOW ME WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE, THIS IS WHAT DEMOCRACY LOOKS LIKE!” and “WHAT DO WE WANT? CLIMATE JUSTICE! WHEN DO WE WANT IT? NOW!”
The crowd later made their way to Battery Park where Jaden and Willow Smith would perform, and 16-year-old climate activist Greta Thunberg would deliver her speech.
It was estimated that around 60,000 protesters rallied to make their voices heard.
Thanks to the New York City’s Department of Education excusing their absences, students were able to take the day off to fight for their future.
Even dogs participated in the strike!
Many demonstrators came up with interesting ways to express their concern for the Earth’s future.
Here you can see some of the many clever and eye-catching posters.
Although autumn was just around the corner, the blazing sun was no match for these spirited youths as they dominated the streets.
Manhattan Center for Science and Math also participated in the strike, along with MCSM’s Green Dream Club. They were interviewed by numerous news stations, such as Buzzfeed and AJ+. We are very proud of their determination and participation in the strike!
MCSM Green Dream Club Co-Presidents (left to right): Emely Romo and Taspia Linti.
(Pictures by Christopher Lara)