 John, From the beginning, Sunrise set out to elect a new generation of leaders who will fight to stop climate change and create millions of good jobs in the process. Just this year, we’ve seen historic victories for Green New Deal champions around the country. Now, it’s our time to take over. Leaders in our movement have already stepped up to run for office, but as young, first-time candidates who are often taking on entrenched politicians, it can be hard to win without skills, money, and a support system. But if we fail to elect Green New Deal champions at every level of government, climate change and injustice will accelerate. That’s why we're launching a candidate recruitment and training program to support more young leaders to take this leap. I know how hard it can be to take the plunge: I ran for office this year, challenging a 56-year family dynasty for state representative in South Bend, Indiana. Alongside my hub, we built the largest primary campaign in the state. On June 2nd, we lost by just 371 votes. If I had the support to start earlier, someone to coach me and my team, or had a few more volunteers to contact voters, I might just have won and sent an earthquake through Indiana politics. Now, I’m dedicated to supporting young people in our movement who are courageous enough to run. Believe me folks, we’re gonna win. Are you or someone you know interested in running, but don’t know how to take that first step? Has running for office crossed your mind, but always seemed out of reach? As a young person who was terrified before I launched my campaign, I know the feeling. Young people face countless barriers to running, which is why we’re launching this program.
P.S. You can support our work to identify and train young climate leaders by chipping in here. |