Diverse Coalition of Faith Communities, Conservation and Racial Justice Organizations Hold Outdoor Vigil Demanding Passage of the Climate and Community Investment Act – March 11th

What: Schenectady Prayer Vigil for Climate Justice

Where: Riverside Park,132 Front Street in Schenectady, New York

When: Thursday, March 11th, 2021 at 5:30pm

A diverse and growing coalition of local faith communities, conservation nonprofits and racial justice organizations will gather this Thursday, March 11th at 5:30pm to rise in unity and demand the passage of the Climate and Community Investment Act (CCIA) this spring in New York State. The vigil is part of a statewide and global day of action on climate justice organized by NY Renews and Green faith called “Sacred People, Sacred Earth. ”Across the globe, there will be over 300 events in over 40 countries. Over 100 organizations, denominations, and lineages stand in support of these events, representing over 100 million people of faith and spirit. In its local iteration, the Schenectady Prayer Vigil for Climate Justice is cosponsored by Messiah Lutheran Church, First Reformed Church of Schenectady, Congregation Gates of Heaven, All of Us Community Action Group, The Unitarian Universalist Society of Schenectady, Schenectady Community Ministries (SiCM), the Schenectady Chapter of the Adirondack Mountain Club (ADK)and Progressive Schenectady. Presentations will include an opening prayer from Shae Fitzgerald (CGOH), a discussion on environmental racism from Mikayla Foster (All of Us), a spiritual reflection from Rev. Daniel Carlson (First Reformed), and call to action on the CCIA from Katie Chao (Progressive Schenectady) before the presentation of a closing hymn for climate justice. Social distancing and masks will be required and there will be a virtual component for those who do not feel comfortable gathering in-person. Primary parking will be in the First Reformed Church of Schenectady lot and there are a limited number of parking spots by the North Ferry Street entrance to the park (right next to where we’ll be) for people with accessibility concerns. The event will be roughly thirty minutes and will take place rain or shine.