Evan King of ALCS, holds a sign with a fellow student.Photos and article by Hallie Richwine; video courtesy of Dr. Twana Sparks

Twenty-seven weeks ago, Silver City youths participating in the youth empowerment program called the Thinking on a Mountain project began taking a stand, literally, at Gough Park. Anywhere from 5 to 20 students held signs and rallied for change. 

Fueled by the Climate Reality Leadership Corps training and inspired by Greta Thunberg, these Aldo Leopold Charter School students, alumni, and friends participated in the #FridaysForFuture climate change awareness protests. On September 20, 2019 adults all over the globe joined young people, and Silver City was no exception.

ALCS teacher Jim McIntosh was among the people standing on the sidewalk with signs. "These kids are willing volunteers, they're here after hours." 

The enthusiasm of the students was met with equal fervor from adults in the community, many of whom heard about how to participate in the Global Climate Strike in workshops that were part of the Gila River Festival.

Tim DeChristopher was among the crowd. DeChristopher was the Gila River Festival keynote speaker and an inspiration for the students. He is known for civil disobedience in late 2008, and his subsequent imprisonment brought him into international spotlight as an activist. 

Twana Sparks filmed the many signs and chanting folks. "There are 465 people here," she said. 

#FridaysForFuture meet every Friday at Gough Park. Contact the Thinking on a Mountain community organization for more information.