2010 Spring Seminar
Mission Statement
As Unitarian Universalists, we recognize that global-warming is a direct threat to both the interdependent web of life and a peaceful, just world community. Unsustainable amounts of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere, rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and wide-spread disease already harm vulnerable populations. Severe food and water shortages, mass migrations, increased war all around the globe, and mass extinctions will imperil the future.
It is a mistake to think that only developing countries will suffer. Developed countries will also be hard hit. There is no safe haven. We must work to change the status quo. We cannot have future generations say of us: They knew, but did not act.
To emphasize the urgency of this global reality, the theme of our 2010 Annual Intergenerational Spring Seminar is climate change. Our expert speakers will detail the science of climate change and how we must mitigate and adapt against its widespread effects. Presenters will also share social and economic studies, policy research, and activist experiences, and invite participants into intergenerational dialogue, spiritual reflection, and personal commitment.
Participants will draft a Seminar Statement to be delivered to UU congregations, as well as to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and the NGO community. As UUs committed to global justice and support of the United Nations, participants will leave inspired and empowered to continue climate work in our local communities. Our planet needs us.
Spring Seminar Statement
Whereas…
All seven of the UU principles mandate environmental stewardship…
The scientific evidence supporting global warming is overwhelming and cannot be ignored…
Climate change has the potential to degrade the quality of life of all people on earth, particularly those who lack the resources to adapt.
The impacts of global warming have dire consequences, including extreme weather, rising sea levels, and mass extinctions…
There is no second planet and so we must preserve the one we have…
Dwindling water and food supply will increase conflict between groups and threaten world peace…
The COP15 was a pivotal first step towards making a binding agreement but is not enough…
We hereby resolve to…
Be conscientious consumers by distinguishing the difference between ‘need’ and ‘want’.
Educate our communities (schools, congregations, etc.) with the most accurate information available, counter disinformation, and to use the internet and the arts as a tool of communication.
Take simple and economical steps in our own backyards (such as planting native trees and plants) as well as advocating for pro-environment legislation and research on a larger scale.
Support political candidates/elected officials that acknowledge the climate crisis and demand that they take action.
Urge COP16 in Cancun to develop a fair, ambitious binding agreement. The agreement should provide substantial aid to developing countries for technology transfer and adaptation.
Work with the United Nations for generational equity so that our children inherit a planet that is both functional and enjoyable. We must support the UU-UNO as our representative on a global scale.
