Students bring attention to climate change

Katie Warkentine began planning the Murray State University Climate Strike from her twin bed when she realized no one else had yet coordinated an event.

“When Sept. 20 rolled around and I realized no one was setting up anything, I was like, ‘Why not here at Murray where we have some of the most unique examples of environmental beauty right on our doorstep,’” said Warkentine, a sophomore from Shelbyville, Kentucky.

While Warkentine said she was stressed from being the sole organizer, she had plenty of support from the community.

“…everyone who I have contacted and reached out to for information and such has been so supportive and communicative,” Warkentine said. 

During the Climate Strike Thursday on campus, participants could purchase “dirt” cups with proceeds going toward the Four Rivers Watershed Watch. They could also sign a petition in support of Juliana v. United States.

The lawsuit, which was filed in 2015 by 21 young people against the executive branch, including both former President Barack Obama and current President Donald J. Trump, alleges that the government failed to protect them from climate change. Four years later, the suit is continuing to wind its way through the courts.

“I think it’s really important to save the planet and I think it’s important to rally to save the planet because it’s the only one we have and the earth is not renewable,” Lexi Evans, a freshman South East, Missouri, said. 

Warkentine and several other people spoke at the event, which was held in the Quad. Students made signs that they then displayed.

“The time for change is, and has only ever been, now,” Darren Paris, biomedical science student, said. 

During the past week, youth across the world held Climate Strikes to bring attention to the climate crisis.