By Lucy Manne, 350 Australia CEO
As we look back at the last few months of unprecedented, devastating bushfires and drought, and look towards a hot, dry summer, it’s more important than ever that we build a politics of hope.
At 350 Australia, we have a new strategy for the new decade, and we are feeling resolute. We know that it’s essential we step up our efforts in 2020, and we are determined to build a world in which politicians answer to the people, not big polluters.
To get there, we’re asking for your support – so instead of more plastic presents and stocking fillers, why not give someone you love the gift of climate action this Christmas, on their behalf. It’s the gift that keeps on giving!
What is a politics of hope?
A politics of hope is the feeling you get when you chant with a crowd of people at a rally knowing that you’re not alone. It’s the feeling of awe when you look around the world at all the individuals and communities striving to create a better world, and succeeding against all odds. It’s knowing deep in your heart that movements who resist the hoarding of power by a greedy few are the ones who bend the arc of history towards justice.
Hope sometimes feels impossible, and power holders try and make it feel that way every day. They make you feel like the world will never change, as if injustice is a natural way of being. A politics of hope means having the courage to look them in the eye and believe that every action we take towards justice will move us closer to dismantling their power and building our own.
It is not blind hope that is based on the luck of the draw. Rather, it’s hope that means another world is possible, even if it’s not promised or guaranteed. Hope calls for action; action is impossible without hope.
I invite you to feel that fire burning in you and keep it alive and inspire others to action. Together as 350 Australia we’re going to draw strength from the great social movements that have changed society for the better, look to those on the frontline of the climate crisis for courage, and act every day for a better world for all. If you’re in, donate today to power a grassroots movement to make it possible.
However you spend the holiday period, make sure you enjoy time with your loved ones, stay safe, check on your neighbours during heatwaves, and get ready to take back the power in 2020.