Climate change is a problem that will not stop unless we take action.
By Shajila Suguneswaran
Climate change is an ongoing issue that is affecting everyone worldwide. While the effects of climate change are arising gradually, there will be damaging long-term effects on our environment, wildlife, health, and much more if we do not start looking for solutions immediately. If you are a citizen in the Peel Region (aged 11-40) who is passionate about helping to shape our future, then it is never too late to get involved with the Community Climate Council. They are a youth-founded, non-partisan, not-for-profit organization that strives to support community resilience through advocating for local climate action, inspiring climate literacy (education regarding the causes and effects of climate change), enhancing municipal relations, and increasing political advocacy in the Peel Region.
After speaking with Miranda Baksh, one of the co-founders and CEO of this organization, she was able to provide us with more information regarding this institution. It was co-founded by her and four other young women who were chosen by the Youth Challenge International when they were looking for 50 Climate Action Catalysts across the GTHA. From there, they reached out to members at the Region of Peel where they learned about the gaps they could fill within our community. They then organized Brampton’s first climate strike in September 2019 at Garden Square, where over 250 residents marched around City Hall to show support (as well as Electoral candidates from all major political parties and news outlets).
Miranda stated, “After raising awareness at the Downtown core by marching around City Hall twice, the community went to Gage Park and participated in litter cleanup. This spoke volumes. This was the moment we realized that just like us, Brampton citizens care about climate change and want to see more action taken to protect our future. After this march, we wanted to formalize our activism in a space that allows youth to have a platform to lead - this is how The CCC was born. Since then, we have grown from 5 members to almost 30 members, incorporated as a non-profit organization and have inspired youth across Ontario to join our cause. We made headlines in Mississauga News, Brampton Guardian, the Caledon Enterprise, Globe and Mail, and the National Observer. We’ve also hosted webinars, developed campaigns, delegated at City Council and engaged our audience in many ways by providing free resources to increase climate literacy. As a young organization, we are completely volunteer-led and are always looking for ways to continue the impact of our work.”
As a youth in the region of Peel, this organization plays an important role in our community and can give us the opportunity to increase awareness about the on-going impacts of the climate, empower youth to have a say for the future, and give many of us a platform to lead at a young age. Becoming a general volunteer, or even applying for more specialized positions is a great way to get involved within our community through this organization. Not only is this a great way to get more involved in the climate movement, but you will acquire different skill sets, and can also gain volunteer hours. Climate change is a problem that will not be stopped unless we take action.
Works Cited
Community Climate Council. (n.d.). Retrieved December 21, 2020, from https://www.communityclimatecouncil.org/
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