Climate Strike brings awareness in Davis

PHOTO: Davis community members are gathered on Friday, Oct. 27th for the weekly climate strike

By Boyeon Choi

BlueDevilHUB.com Staff–

Davis has been hosting a weekly climate strike every Friday from 12-1 p.m. near the corner of Central Park on 5th and B street. 

People of all ages come weekly to show their support and raise their voices on concerns about the environment. They come prepared with signs, posters and other graphics to visually illustrate their worries and thoughts. 

In fact, just about a month ago on Sep. 17, there was a global climate strike event here in Davis, one that definitely affected the mindset of the whole community. At the big event, community members presented one common theme through a common goal: advocating for a healthier environment in a safer space. 

Showing this artistically and in a fun way to engage all participants, a “mural” was made on the ground by the pavilions where the Farmer’s Market is held. Made in green, orange, black and white, the letterings read, “END FOSSIL FUELS.”  

With spirits high from the participation that they received from then, Davis community members continued to hold up their signs up high at the strike on Oct. 27. 

“It was amazing to see the community bond together, (especially through the) use of art as a tool for justice and aesthetics,” primary youth organizer of Fridays of Future sophomore Niko Novick said. 

Being unexpectedly thrown into the leadership position, Novick was a little startled, but proactively continued to serve in their community and show up to all the events that they could make. 

“You know, it’s about showing up, participating and putting in the time to show that you’re dedicated for change,” Novick said.

Many of the younger generation, high school students especially, are afraid to start being involved in these events because they feel that these actions are reserved to those that are more experienced or that because of their age, they won’t be able to make a significant impact. 

“It honestly matters so much,” Novick said. “You just need to come out and just do it. It matters, even if you’re young, and it’s seen by people.”

FFA committee chair senior Emily Tran also encourages students to actively participate, even if they’re not used to it. 

“Even if someone doesn’t know what to do, they can always learn more about what actions to take… and what their actions affect the environment,” Tran said. 

The Fridays for Future group and other organizations are also very welcoming and are willing to teach newcomers about certain environmental issues and resources. 

“Being more knowledgeable about their environment around us is important to living a sustainable life,” Tran said.