CAFOD to march for climate justice

Many thousands of people are expected to march through London on Sunday 29 November to show solidarity with those suffering the effects of climate change.

On the eve of the UN climate talks, where world leaders, including Prime Minister David Cameron, will negotiate a global agreement to curb carbon emissions and tackle climate change, thousands of people across the globe will be calling for a fair and binding deal that has the poorest people at its heart.

Last year the People's Climate March attracted over half a million people worldwide in cities as diverse as Rio, Delhi and New York. This year organisers are expecting the turnout to be even bigger.

Before the London march there will be an inter-faith service organised by charities including CAFOD, Christian Aid, World Jewish Relief and Islamic Relief to recognise the contribution that different religions have played in caring for the environment. The service will take place at the Westminster Synagogue, Rutland Gardens SW7 1BX London from 11.45am to 12.45pm. To register your attendance see: www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/interfaith-gathering-peoples-march-for-climate-tickets-19314319650

Celebrities are expected at a rally to end the day.

The People's Climate March comes just months after Pope Francis published his landmark encyclical, Laudato Si', on care for our common home. In it he said that climate change is a global problem that requires everyone to take action.

CAFOD's Campaigns Engagement Manager, Sarah Hagger-Holt, said: "Whether you're used to campaigning with CAFOD or completely new to marches, Sunday 29 November is not to be missed. It's a chance for everyone to get involved and show the world we care, and are prepared to act, because climate change is threatening the Earth, our common home, and pushing the most vulnerable people deeper into poverty.

"With it being one day before the historic climate talks begin, the timing couldn't be more important. Anyone wondering whether they should come, I couldn't encourage you more. Now more than ever, it's important to show that we can unite across our differences to call for a better world for all."
Last week almost 50 campaigners took their first steps in a 200 mile pilgrimage to the climate talks, with a further 17 people getting ready to use pedal power to join them.

The CAFOD pilgrims hope to join with other faith groups from around the world to present over half a million signatures calling for climate action to Christiana Figueres, Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC).

CAFOD campaigner and mum-of-four Judith Tooth is one of the pilgrims. She said: "The Pope's appeal to everyone to look after the environment truly inspired me. Together we can make a difference and I look forward to sharing the journey and ideas for what we can all do once I'm back home."

Join CAFOD at the London climate march by registering at: www.cafod.org.uk/ClimateMarch