‘It’s not just our children’s future’: Extinction Rebellion begins central London protest
Diversity of Extinction Rebellion protest praised as tensions of climate crisis intense Protesters line the streets of Parliament Square Thousands of protesters gathered in London today to mark the beginning of a four-day mass demonstration organised by Extinction Rebellion (XR). Groups chanted and danced outside Government departments in Westminster as they called for more action to tackle the climate crisis. More than 30,000 people have said they will attend the protests, branded The Big One, between April 21 and April 24, in what will be XRs first major action since announcing it would move away from more controversial methods of protest and prioritise attendance over arrest and relationships over roadblocks. Protester Mhari Mansell, 45, from Twickenham said: Were here today because the government has the power to make huge changes that are necessary right now in order to save the planet. We as individuals dont have that power but they do. If they dont do it now then there are going to be fundamental changes that are going to be detrimental to humanity. They need to act now. The call is for the government to act quickly on the use of fossil fuels, subsidies and a ban on single-use plastics. Student Iona Ogilvy-Stuart, 21, from Leeds, said: Were in a climate catastrophe and a lot of peoples voices arent being heard and the governments priorities are all in the wrong place. Student Iona Ogilvy-Stuart believes the government need to listen to everyones voices One protestor described the scenes as like being at a carnival whilst others praised the diversity of the movement. A protester who works with the Forest Schools Association, Dr Sara Knight, 70, from Suffolk said: Its just fascinating to see the range of people at the event. I was dancing outside one of the government buildings earlier with everyone from young people to older people. Its just great how were all bothered, were all interested, and we all want change. Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Access unlimited streaming of movies and TV shows with Amazon Prime Video Sign up now for a 30-day free trial Dr Sara Knight who works with the Forest Schools Association This sentiment was echoed by the Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) who emphasised the need to invest and restore marine habitats. Head of intergovernmental engagement at WDC, Ed Goodall, 34, from the Isle of Wight, said: Were here because whales are playing such a huge ecosystem functioning role in the ocean and its that role that we really want the government to recognise. Weve seen such a huge mobilisation of society of the last few years, but were not just in a climate crisis, were in a biodiversity crisis, a food crisis and an ocean crisis. But the diversity at this event is just amazing and really shows how far the movement has grown. Its a carnival atmosphere and I just hope people take things home and learn from today to make changes in their own lives. Head of intergovernmental engagement at WDC, Ed Goodall, wants to emphasise the role that whales play in the ecosystem Many in attendance said they were there to save the lives of their children and grandchildren, whilst others also emphasised the importance of protecting every life from the effects of the climate crisis. Manufacturing company manager, Elise Moss, 40, from Kent, said: Its not just my childrens future, its my future as well. These changes in the climate are going to happen really quickly and I dont think that people realise this. I think a good solution would be a citizens assembly and one thats legally binding so that the government cant just override it like it did in France. Its our future too says manufacturing company manager Elise Moss The Extinction Rebellion events will continue until 24 April. Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies Student Iona Ogilvy-Stuart believes the government need to listen to everyones voices Lauren Chaloner Dr Sara Knight who works with the Forest Schools Association Lauren Chaloner Head of intergovernmental engagement at WDC, Ed Goodall, wants to emphasise the role that whales play in the ecosystem Lauren Chaloner Its our future too says manufacturing company manager Elise Moss Lauren Chaloner Protesters line the streets of Parliament Square Lauren Chaloner Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today. Log in New to The Independent? Or if you would prefer: Want an ad-free experience? Hi {{indy.fullName}}