The Earth and Climate Action Ministry (ECAM), in conjunction with the UUA, hosted a Climate Justice Revival event on Sunday, September 29. The UUA offered materials for this event to all churches, and more than 300 churches participated over the weekend. East Shore offered a Climate Justice church service and after-church Climate Advocacy session.
The church service focused on the principles of Climate Justice and Washington’s Climate Commitment Act, which is under threat of repeal by state initiative 2117. The Climate Commitments Act is state law which provides funds to municipalities to help them implement local climate action plans and projects to help a just transition to clean energy. At least 35% of funds are for overburdened communities including tribes that are in need. John Chmaj, Ann Fletcher, and Mark Norelius were speakers. Jenny Hall selected and read the Time for All Ages story.
The after-church Advocacy Session was organized by Mark Norelius. Milly Mullarky and Karin Elofson from Right Relations also helped facilitate the discussion. More than 30 members shared their concerns and ideas about what’s most important to consider in healing the Earth. Rev. María Cristina collaborated with us on the service and participated in the Advocacy Hour. Amanda Uluhan and LeAnne Struble provided programming for kids during the Advocacy Hour.
ECAM has gathered that feedback and will be using it to help facilitate ESUC Climate Community events, where we can work together to engage in positive action.
by Kristi Weir, Earth & Climate Action Ministry