XR UK press team press@extinctionrebellion.uk

“This World is Ours: Resist. Reclaim. Rise up!”

Climate Change is real. The planet is heating, primarily as a result of the burning of fossil fuels. In the resulting chaos, the thirtieth Conference of the Parties (COP30) is meeting in Belem, Brazil.

Extinction Rebellion UK and allies across the UK joined the Climate Justice Coalition for the COP30 Global Day of Action. All over the world, peoples and communities are fighting for survival, for their rights and for justice. We stand in resistance in the face of economic turmoil, climate catastrophe, attacks on human rights and genocide in places like Palestine, the Democratic Republic of Congo and Sudan.

In Manchester, protesters from a coalition of climate movements demanded the UK government honour its climate commitments, show maximum ambition for ending deforestation and seek justice for impacted communities. The government must make polluters pay to help fund the green and just transition that’s desperately needed for workers in both the UK and beyond.

A peaceful march, pre-liaised with the Police,  was led by families with children to send a clear message about whose future is at stake.  Striking performances including the Extinction Rebellion Oilslicks, satirical disco dancers and a forest themed dress code took place.

Sadly the event was marred by disruption from external groups who proceeded to harass and film at close quarters shouting insults, swearing and using violent language in an attempt to provoke a reaction. Some were pushed and shoved while parents attempted to shield their children. Others were threatened. It is reported that people were chased and violently assaulted by the disruptors.

An Extinction Rebellion spokesperson said:
“We remained calm, unprovoked and determined to get our climate related messages across while being constantly harassed at close range”

In a statement to participants, organisers said:
“We are very grateful to all those who took part – from parents associations, faith groups, environmental groups, trade unions, peace and anti racism groups and supporters of Palestine and Sudan. Our solidarity will not be broken by people who share none of our values and whose ideology is based on hatred and division…” 

“Greater Manchester Climate Justice Coalition calls on the Police to take much stronger action against these aggressive and disruptive groups, and to uphold the right to peaceful protest.”

Asad Rehman, Friends of the Earth executive director said:
“Friends of the Earth is deeply disturbed that far-right extremists violently targeted a peaceful climate protest in Manchester at the weekend. What was a moment to bring communities together in shared care for people and planet was instead marred by disgraceful attacks that left three people injured and many more shaken.”

Despite overwhelming odds, resistance and struggles for change are alive. The world may be unravelling, but it is also being rewoven, community by community. In Manchester, as in every part of the world, people are fighting for their survival and their future. 

Together we will strengthen and build networks rooted in care, solidarity, and radical hope.

A Better World is Possible.

_{Photo credits: Linda Walker & The Greater Manchester Climate Justice Coalition}