GREEN RIBBONS FOR CHILDREN'S FUTURE

 Yesterday, I mustered my energy and participated in Provincetown's March for Climate Change and recognition of the current CO2 summit in Paris.

We arrived early at the UU church on Commercial Street. I worried that the turnout would be small and ineffectual, unusual for me as I carry hope in my heart despite the dire predictions. Like children peeking in a store window, some people began to tentatively approach the meeting place. Whereas others didn't hesitate to walk toward us, boundless energy bursting--all ages; a human menagerie. Some participants carried signs, others wore hats or garlands of green leaves.

The cold temperature, around 37 degrees--not counting the blustery wind skirting across the flat, hooked appendage and the northernmost-point of Cape Cod--forced marchers to bundle up against the chill. But we carried our banners, posters and green ribbons to show our solidarity.

Among the diverse collection of marchers, were teenagers; young adults who waved their banners and cheered on the procession, giving me hope that the Cape's youth will continue the cause.

What were they/we fighting for? Within one generation, Nauset Beach--as scientists have predicted--will have eroded to the point of no return. Liams, an Orleans seafood shack on the border between the parking lot and the beach, will have disappeared. My childhood oasis and others' will become "dust in the wind." Scattered fresh-water ponds will change to saltwater via the encroaching sea; health concerns will rise significantly as pollutants from Boston, surrounding states increase. (For specs, please refer to The Cape Cod Times' special section  Cape Cod Times on Climate Change )

And if a motley band of politicians, entertainers, writers, small business people and environmental activists can remind those who have no regard for our cause why stemming climate change is imperative, then I foresee a small victory for our beloved Cape Cod and a better future for residents, young and old.

Below are more pics from our march, Sunday afternoon:

Our fearless leader!

State Representative Sarah Peake and I.

Musicians led the way.

Two spirited activists.

The end of the March but not our deep passion for the cause.