Climate activists around the world are stepping up to confront what many consider to be humanity’s greatest crisis: the climate emergency. One such activist is Aru Shiney-Ajay, whose awakening to the severity of the climate crisis began in her late teens. Witnessing firsthand the devastating effects of climate change on her family in India, including deadly floods in Kerala and record-breaking air pollution in Delhi, Shiney-Ajay knew she had to take action.
Joining forces with the Sunrise Movement, a group of young climate activists founded in 2017, Shiney-Ajay and her peers set out to shake up the status quo of traditional environmental organizations. Their approach was bold and direct, unafraid to confront powerful figures and demand urgent action on climate change. This approach garnered national attention when 150 Sunrise Movement members staged a sit-in at the office of incoming Speaker Nancy Pelosi to advocate for a Green New Deal.
As a student at Swarthmore College, Shiney-Ajay played a key role in organizing this high-profile action on Capitol Hill. Following its success, she made the decision to leave college and commit herself full-time to the work of the Sunrise Movement. In October of the following year, Shiney-Ajay was appointed as the organization’s executive director, succeeding Varshini Prakash in this crucial leadership role.
At just 26 years old, Shiney-Ajay leads a diverse and passionate movement with thousands of members across the United States. The Sunrise Movement has hubs in 118 cities, towns, and campuses, with a significant presence in California alone. Under Shiney-Ajay’s leadership, the organization has continued to push for bold and comprehensive climate legislation, including the Green New Deal.
In a recent interview, Shiney-Ajay reflected on her journey from volunteer to executive director of the Sunrise Movement. She emphasized the importance of collective action and the power of hope in the face of daunting challenges. As she looks to the future, Shiney-Ajay remains committed to mobilizing young people to advocate for meaningful climate policies and address the urgent need for action on climate change.
The Vision of the Green New Deal
Central to the work of the Sunrise Movement is the call for a Green New Deal, a comprehensive plan to address both the climate crisis and economic inequality. Shiney-Ajay explains that the Green New Deal is inspired by the New Deal of the Great Depression era, which brought about significant legislative and economic changes to society. Similarly, the Green New Deal seeks to enact legislation at all levels of government and transform various sectors of society to combat climate change.
The Sunrise Movement’s vision for the Green New Deal goes beyond environmental policies; it also aims to create good, green, union jobs and promote social justice. By linking climate action with economic opportunity and equity, the Green New Deal presents a holistic approach to addressing the interconnected challenges of climate change and economic inequality.
A Call for Immediate Action
As the impacts of climate change become increasingly severe, the urgency of taking action has never been clearer. Rising temperatures, devastating wildfires, and extreme weather events serve as stark reminders of the need for immediate and decisive measures to address the climate crisis. The Sunrise Movement’s Climate Emergency Campaign calls on President Biden to declare a climate emergency, unlocking executive powers to address the urgent threat posed by climate change.
Shiney-Ajay emphasizes that the time for bold action is now, as the consequences of inaction are dire. By mobilizing young people and advocating for transformative policies, the Sunrise Movement aims to rally support for urgent climate action at all levels of government. Despite the challenges ahead, Shiney-Ajay remains hopeful that collective action can lead to meaningful change in the fight against climate change.
The Role of Young People in Climate Activism
One of the defining features of the Sunrise Movement is its focus on empowering young people to take a leading role in climate activism. Shiney-Ajay highlights the unique perspective and sense of urgency that young people bring to the fight against climate change. Growing up in a world shaped by the impacts of climate change, this generation is acutely aware of the existential threat posed by environmental degradation.
Moreover, young people are increasingly concerned with issues of justice and equality, viewing climate action as a vital component of a broader agenda for social change. By mobilizing young voters and activists, the Sunrise Movement aims to harness the energy and passion of this generation to drive meaningful progress on climate policy and advocacy.
As Shiney-Ajay looks to the future, she remains committed to pushing for bold and ambitious climate legislation, even as she navigates the complexities of leadership and decision-making within the movement. By staying true to the values of hope, collective action, and justice, Shiney-Ajay hopes to inspire others to join the fight for a more sustainable and equitable future for all.