Max, Attilio, and Holly, pictured from left to right at LCOY
The Local Conference of Youth
Recently, three CCL’ers, Attilio Abarca-Bodden, Holly Swiglo, and Max Arquilevich all traveled to the city of Tempe Arizona to help draft a Youth Statement for COP 29 which will be used to make a basis of negotiations for international climate change negotiations underneath the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Each youth delegate who has participated in this blog is also a member of the Citizens’ Climate Lobby, and was excited to write about their experience.
Attilio’s experience
For Attilio, attending LCOY was an eye-opening experience that “allowed me to engage with youth climate advocates from across the country, all driven by the urgency of the climate crisis”. Attilio had the opportunity to contribute to the development of bold policy recommendations, from carbon pricing to sustainable infrastructure, while advocating for equity and environmental justice. The experience was eye-opening, especially in relation to the challenges and complexities of policy-making in a collaborative setting, and it helped him gain a deeper appreciation for the importance of structured discussions and accountability in ensuring meaningful outcomes. “LCOY reinforced my commitment to advocating for a fair, inclusive climate policy that centers the voices of frontline communities—a mission I’m proud to continue with Citizens' Climate Lobby”, says Attilio.
holly’s Experience
For Holly, although all the LCOY delegates were passionate and knowledgeable about climate policy in general- “our areas of expertise varied, and it was great to learn from other delegates. For instance, my background is in domestic carbon pricing, and before LCOY, lacked knowledge of policy surrounding adaptation to the effects of climate change and international climate finance. I now have a more well-rounded and nuanced understanding of climate policy, which will serve me well as I prepare for a career in this field.” Holly also noted that several delegates were not aware of carbon fee and dividend policies and their role in environmental justice, and she was glad to be able to share her knowledge. Holly also held high regard for the guest speakers at LCOY who were phenomenal, like Senator Sheldon Whitehouse recorded a speech for us, emphasizing the crucial role of carbon pricing in reducing domestic emissions.
For Holly, LCOY also allowed her to connect with other climate advocates from across the US. “For instance, my roommate was an international student from Thailand, and she taught me about the environmental movement and political atmosphere in her country. Meeting other young activists from groups like Citizens’ Climate Lobby, Sunrise, and Fridays For Future was incredible! Climate advocacy can take many forms, from nonviolent disobedience to meeting with legislators. I believe that the climate movement is most effective when advocates employ a wide variety of tactics, and it was amazing to see that young people are making this happen across the country. Other delegates’ efforts inspired me and gave me ideas for my advocacy work back home. The lessons I learned and connections I made at LCOY will stick with me long after I left Tempe!”
Max’s Experience
For Max, flying into the hottest city in the U.S. in mid September to discuss climate change was an unforgettable experience. As someone who spent the past year traveling internationally to learn (and sometimes teach) about international climate policy, Max was eager to return to the states and implement what he had learned. This was Arizona's hottest year on record, as well as many other regions on Earth. The time for action is now. Progress is not linear and we must not get discouraged, even as emissions keep rising. This weekend reinvigorated my passion for climate activism. Around 45% of the U.S. is under 35. We are next. Being surrounded by other link-minded youth, talking climate policy and strategy, and learning together. It's what we need more of, and LCOY provided that. Max closes by saying , “I hope to return in the future. Thank you."