Those Suffering the Most from the Climate Crisis
In November 2021, COP26 (the United Nations climate conference) reviewed the climate emergency. Indigenous people and others who suffer the most from the emergency were not at the table where crucial decisions were made. They couldn’t be there because of the cost, racism, unequal distribution of vaccines, and more.
If they had attended, they would have called the world’s attention to how some already adopted strategies are hurting those most affected by the emergency. Also, most governments don’t consider poverty or energy challenges when they address the climate crisis. For example, governments promote solar systems and electric cars, which often only people who are rich and comfortable can afford.
Sustaining All Life and United to End Racism (SAL and UER) believe the climate crisis will not be solved without ending racism and other oppressions. To do this, people need an opportunity to be heard. SAL and UER make the healing tools of RC available to those who want their voices heard and who need a safe place to show their feelings. People get to tell their stories and share their struggles. Others get to listen. SAL made this possible at COP26. The following are some of the stories people told:
- In Nigeria in 2020, there was little or no harmattan season [a time—in December, January, and February—when a dry, hot wind blowing from the Sahara prevails on the Atlantic coast of Africa]. Food shortages followed.
- Madagascar is experiencing higher temperatures, drought, other natural disasters, and unpredictable seasons, leading to food scarcity and poverty. Young people are unable to go to school because they lack food and funds. People search for safer locations but end up living in forests because they are unable to afford life in towns and cities.
- Guatemalans who struggle to defend their territory are persecuted by transnational companies and the government. “We are Indigenous, and people don’t care. It is so painful to live with racism and climate change.”
- In Manitoba, Canada, Indigenous people suffer from both the climate crisis and a massive exploitation of their resources. “People that thrive on hunting and fishing now have their space getting smaller and smaller, and animals are migrating due to climate change.” Many people are unable to feed their families. “We lack access to healthy foods as well as resources to purchase them.” The relationship between Indigenous people and the climate crisis is rooted in colonialism.
- Bangladesh is experiencing unpredictable seasons, diminished food production, deforestation, and competition over limited resources. There is a serious food crisis. People have little or no access to health care, safe employment, education, or political participation. Women and children must travel longer distances for water and wood.
- Chile is experiencing drought and pollution. “The climate crisis does not let us dream as children. Our death is around the corner. Maybe I am a bit pessimistic, but it is the reality for many girls.’’
- Rising water levels in Uganda are destroying aquatic life, which means less economic activity. Many people burn charcoal, which impacts forests. “How do you stop people from cooking with firewood when they have no access to affordable alternative energy?”
We cannot leave behind those already suffering the most from the climate emergency. We must advocate for the poor and most affected.
Bristol, England
(Present Time 207, April 2022)