Geelong students will go on “strike” in a global protest against climate change “inaction” next month.
Kardinia International College VCE students Laura Kelly and Noemi Watson are organising a protest on 15 March outside Corio MP Richard Marles’ office in central Geelong.
“We are striking from school to tell our politicians to take our future seriously and treat climate change for what it is – a crisis,” Laura said.
“We are temporarily sacrificing our education to save our future from the horrific implications of the current climate change inaction.”
She accused the Australian Government of “turning a blind eye” to climate change by supporting controversial projects such as the proposed Adani coal mine in Queensland.
Laura acknowledged conservative commentators criticising a similar student protest last November but said they “missed the point”.
“It’s not about wagging school, it’s about protecting our future.”
Children would feel the effects of climate change more than older conservative commentators, she added.
Kardinia International College deputy principal Paul Dowie said students could strike with parental support in casual dress, as it was not a school event.
“As a school community we are pleased and proud to see students demonstrate a strong sense of social and environmental awareness leading to purposeful action.”
An Education Department spokesperson warned students taking time off class could fall behind but acknowledged schools’ “important” role in supporting students’ “voice” and helping them engage in the community.
