An Inspiring People’s Climate March and Rally

by Linda DeStefano

Translated into Spanish by Rob English

People for Animal Rights (PAR) stands for environmental protection and animal rights so we were happy to form a contingent in the People’s Climate March and Rally on April 29 in Syracuse. Members of Syracuse Animal Rights Organization (SARO) also participated in the contingent. We held our banners and posters high with messages making the connection between the climate crisis and harm to animals. One poster showed six endangered species and said that climate change accelerates extinction of species. Another showed a robin and noted that climate change hurts animals. Migrating song birds are finding it more difficult to find food as their migration schedules are disrupted. Other posters made the point that animal agriculture is a big factor in causing climate change, such as the methane produced by dairy cows. Posters encouraged vegan eating. We were happy that one of the speakers chosen for the rally had the same message.

It was exhilarating to march from Franklin Square Park along the creek walk to the amphitheater at the Inner Harbor. About 1,500 people participated in the event!

Besides music and a variety of speakers, there was a demonstration of electric and hybrid cars and tables from many organizations. And the food trucks included two vegan options.

A note of thanks goes to Climate Change Awareness and Action, a local organization which organized the event. See climate change-action.com. Contact information is 315-308-0846 or cc.awareness.action@gmail.com

For more information about the connection between climate change and the way we eat, contact People for Animal Rights, P.O. Box 15358, Syracuse 13215-0358 or 315-488-PURR (7877) between 8 a.m. and 10 p.m. or people4animalrightscny@gmail.com