Climate change and the next generation
When I see young people all over the world standing up for what they believe in, for the future of the planet and for themselves, it moves me deeply ( School pupils call for radical climate action in UK-wide strike , 15 February). The empowerment of young people, particularly in regard to climate change and civic engagement, is at the heart of the YMCAs raison detre. So while its a grave topic, the only consoling factor for me is the clear demonstration of these young peoples passion, courage and tenacity. The greatest hope for a better future lies in this kind of attitude from our youth when they fully engage in civic issues that affect them and their communities we will start to see real change. I hope the success they have already achieved in gaining the worlds attention will motivate them to stick with these issues and work towards their goals. I feel uplifted because they are realising their power and potential to make a difference. This is how the leaders of tomorrow will be shaped, and they will do better than the leaders of today. We cant predict exactly how the future will look if the current lack of action continues, but we know it doesnt look good. Of course these kids are scared. Of course theyre outraged at those in power who have allowed political self-interest and short-term objectives to blind them. So as the secretary general of the World Alliance of YMCAs, I want to officially congratulate these young people and let them know that the YMCA supports you wholeheartedly. We back your cause and applaud your initiative to take the lead where elected leaders have failed. We join you in calling on decision-makers to take real definitive action on climate change now. Carlos Sanvee Secretary general of the World Alliance of YMCAs The 20 hottest years on record have all happened within the past 22 years; the five hottest were the last five. These are the scariest words I have read in the Guardian for a long time, and there have been some strong contenders. No, John Elledge ( Am I the only one whos terrified by the warm weather? , 27 February), you are not alone. Cherry Weston Wolverhampton The letter from the World Alliance of YMCAs was amended on 1 March 2019 to correct the name of the secretary general Join the debate email guardian.letters@theguardian.com Read more Guardian letters click here to visit gu.com/letters Do you have a photo youd like to share with Guardian readers? Click here to upload it and well publish the best submissions in the letters spread of our print edition