COP26: A moment for the people, the planet and justice
The 26th Conference of the Parties (COP) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change is now underway in Glasgow, Scotland. From October 31 to November 12, the world will be watching to see if world leaders take the urgent and necessary steps for a fair, just and inclusive transformation for all people and the planet.
Climate Action Network – Canada (CAN-Rac) released A Manifesto of Resistance on October 20, 2021, which outlines the vision for a rapid, fair, just, and inclusive transformation to a 1.5°C compatible future. The Manifesto calls on the federal government to increase its ambition and make it fair share contribution to a 1.5°C compatible future, to elevate and amplify the needs and priorities of the Global South, and to address the gaps in climate adaptation and loss and damages.
KAIROS echoes and amplifies these calls for climate justice. The climate crisis requires immediate and decisive action informed by science, a commitment to upholding human rights and redressing inequities, and recognition of Indigenous peoples as rights holders in the development of climate policy. Last week, KAIROS sent its list of priorities for climate action to the Prime Minister in a mandate letter for the newly appointed Minister of Environment and Climate Change. In October, also KAIROS joined a movement of global voices to call on world leaders for global debt cancellation, recognizing that the climate crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic are adding to the debt burdens of countries in the global South.
A joint ecumenical delegation of The United Church of Canada and For the Love of Creation will virtually attend COP26. As churches working together in Canada under the banner of For the Love of Creation, COP26 presents a significant moment for us to engage collectively on the international stage.
Eight delegates were selected from across the country and from various denominations. Some are justice staff, others are volunteers, and one is an ordained priest. They share a deep commitment to climate justice and bring with them a diverse range of knowledge, skills, and experiences including Indigenous perspectives and an understanding of the Global South.
Delegates will have the unique opportunity to follow the negotiations, connect with national and international climate justice advocates, engage with Canadian officials, and share their experiences with the broad, cross-Canada network of churches and faith-based organizations affiliated with For the Love of Creation. Some of the delegation will be able to access accredited spaces and some will access numerous publicly available COP26 programs.
Engage with the delegation’s activities at COP26 by following #FLCCOP26, #UCCanCOP26 on Facebook and Instagram. Updates and stories and calls to action from the delegation will be posted as they share their virtual experience of this international gathering.
KAIROS invites you to participate in the Global Day of Action for Climate Justice on Saturday, November 6 in person or online. This day of action will bring together global movements to build power for system change. Use this map to find a local action near you.
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