Hi John,
My name is Anil. I’d been putting off joining climate activism for a long time - partly because of the need to work hard to pay bills, the family commitments - and mostly, the Fear.
The fear of change, of judgement, of consequences. As a gentleman of colour I’ve experienced extreme hate, as well as love. But I’ve reached a saturation point - I can’t stand the world I live in and I want change now.
In May this year I got my first taste of rebellion. I found the courage to meet my local XR group at an action to ‘reclaim the streets’ by painting pop-up bike lanes. I was so struck by their energy and acceptance. I’d finally met a crowd who listened to my voice. It inspired me to act.
Creative actions are the heart of XR - they grab attention, start conversations and inspire others to join in. I’ll be standing with my fellow rebels in September - and like every other local group in the UK we need arts equipment to make an impact on the streets.
- £15 could buy 5 metres of banner fabric which could be made into a beautifully hand-painted roadblock banner.
- £80 could buy a set of iconic XR art blocks for printing flags and clothing.
Having arts equipment meant I could act. I set off on my bicycle at 3.30am one morning with chalk paint and bike lane stencils, I finished at 8.30am exhausted and proud. I’d had friendly, meaningful conversations with people in my neighbourhood and I’d planted the first seed of rebellion in my community. I am now seeing it blossom.
Our diversity is beautiful. Whatever part of this emergency moves you - the destruction of the animal kingdom, the right for your kids to breathe clean air, or the knowledge that without change, the most vulnerable people in the world will continue to suffer first and hardest - When we stand together, we can win.
I won’t be a bystander any longer. With your support, creative actions will inspire others to make their voice heard.
Thank you.
Love & rage,
Anil
