Advocating for Change

Last week in Paris there was much more than just presentations and negotiation meetings taking place, but rather people pleading for change to save their livelihoods and different methods of advocacy. We had the opportunity to see one of the most unique forms that could only be seen in Paris. The Eiffel tower was lit up with various forms of art and messaging. Phrases such as "protect the earth," "COP21," and "2 degrees" along with varying colors of light were displayed on the tower. This was an interesting experience to see as it attracted many tourists, visitors, and climate activists. Additionally, it attracted a Thai news station who reported on the subject matter and interviewed one my colleagues. Some felt that this act of art was a disgrace to the Eiffel tower itself, while others found it to be a unique form of messaging. Paris has taken quite a few steps to show their support for COP21 and reaching an international agreement. This shows to be one of their strongest intentions in support of negotiations. While the event may not been put on by the city, clearly there must have been some support as there was no pushback to take down the images. What I found even more fascinating about these images was the solidarity and globalization that it provides. These message are ones that do not just affect France or America, but rather ones that affect everyone at the conference and in the world. We need to protect the earth for it's own sake and for the sake of our livelihoods and displaying the messages on the Eiffel tower seemed to be an effective way to so!