The Guardian, Sept 23, 2024

John — I’ve spoken to so many young people who feel disillusioned — with politics, with leaders who don’t seem to listen to their concerns, and with the state of our world.

I understand why young people are really angry, and really hurting. But we can’t let that anger turn into apathy. What I want to say to young people is this: Do not sit this election out.

We don’t have time to wait for perfect candidates or perfect policies. We need to push those in power to act on climate, and that starts by voting for the candidates who will give our movement a voice.

If we stay home this November — if we don’t fight back — we’re handing the keys back to Donald Trump and the oil barons who he takes his orders from. We won’t have a voice.

We are facing a climate emergency. Scientists have repeatedly warned that if we don’t cut greenhouse gas emissions by half in the next decade, we are heading toward catastrophe. Vital ecosystems will be destroyed, millions will die or be displaced, and our chances of securing a livable future will be all but dead. And we know who’s at the helm of this crisis — the fossil fuel industry and the politicians that enable them.

Listen, I’ve spent more than five decades fighting for change — from protesting the Vietnam War to putting my body on the line for the climate movement.

History shows us that we need millions of people in the streets, but we also need people in the halls of power with ears and a heart to hear the protests, to hear the demands. Your vote and your voice are how we get those leaders who will listen — and act.

That’s the work I set in motion three years ago when I launched the Jane Fonda Climate PAC. JanePAC is laser-focused on electing climate champions who are committed to a livable future. Our final end-of-quarter fundraising deadline before the election is tomorrow at midnight, and we’re falling short of the $70,000 needed to meet our financial obligations. So, I’m humbly asking you… If you’re able to, please chip in a few dollars to help us meet this important goal.

And John — thank you for voting with climate in your heart.

With hope and determination,

Jane Fonda

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