Protect Our Future: Stop Dirty Banks!
Third Act is a group of climate activists aged 60 and older, one of hundreds of climate conscious groups preparing for a national day of nonviolent protest. On March 21st, these groups plan to protest the major American banks that continue to bankroll fossil fuel expansion. The fossil fuel industry’s new fossil fuel projects are supported by big businesses, banks and other investment institutions, with the money and lobbying power to slow progress on climate action, including the adoption of clean energy.
Despite a significant and growing number of young climate activists, many of them lack the resources to send a substantial financial message. On the other hand, many older Americans have the means to do exactly that.
For all the intelligence, earnestness, activism and energy of young people, they lack the structural power to force the change they need. There are 70 million people over the age of 60. Seventy percent of the country’s financial assets are in the hands of the silent generation compared to . . . five percent for millennials. –Bill McKibben, author and founder of Third Act.
So on 3-21-23, what will this Stop Dirty Banks Day of Action look like? It will be a peaceful event. Activists around the country will locate one of the local big banks and arrive carrying protest signs. (See below.) They will also close bank accounts and cut up credit cards. There will be chants and songs and artwork. There are more than 50 action events planned around the country, including one in Redding, CA! (See below.)
In addition, there are opportunities to sign the Banking on Our Future Pledge or send an email to a Bank CEO. If you bank with one of the big banks, write a letter to them. Write a letter to the editor and submit it to your local online or print newspaper.
Choose whatever appeals to you, but do choose! Act on your own or act with a group or both! By taking action, each of us has the power to initiate change, to make it real.
(This event has been POSTPONED.)
Redding Stop Dirty Banks! Event
Tuesday, March 21st 9:30 am-12:00 noon
Ready for some fun? Meet NSCA members on the sidewalk of Bank of America on East St. in downtown Redding. We will walk from Bank of America across the street to Wells Fargo and finally to Members 1st Credit Union. Bring your signs–Banks, stop funding fossil fuels! Bring your voices! We’ll need some folks to lead the songs and chants. There will be a handout for sharing. Consider cutting up a “big bank” credit card and opening an account at a local credit union such as Members 1st–paving the way to close Big Bank accounts for good. See you there!
At North State Climate Action, we’d love to hear about any actions you take on your own, too. If you are willing to share, email us at ns4climate@gmail.com. Don’t forget to take and share pictures!