By Sam Lambert
On the evening of December 7th, we were joined by a fantastic panel of climate leaders and municipal elected, staff, and volunteers at the First Parish Church in Malden. Malden City Councilor Carey McDonald, Newton Energy Coach Liora Silkes, and Sierra Club Climate Research Volunteer Armando Terrones joined us to share their wins in 2023 and what led to them. It was also great to begin visioning for our 2024 goals and how if we work collectively, we can achieve the urgent climate goals we need.
Local actions are at the heart of our climate goals and serve as a foundation of what is possible. Councilor McDonald spoke about bringing people together with transparency and inclusion in the processes. While it often feels that the state is not moving fast enough or that there are unnecessary obstacles, it is critical to look at what can be done and build consensus around that. Newton Energy Coach Liora Silkes discussed the importance of advocacy and cross-team work across elected officials, staff, and frontline or community-based organizations. Longtime MA Sierra Club volunteer Armando Terrones offered the resources that organizations like the Sierra Club can bring, both in support, action, and connecting the work across the region for collective power.
A number of thoughtful questions were asked by the audience, followed by the opportunity to network and meet folks from across the region that we may not have the opportunity to interact with on a regular basis. The sharing of ideas and potential for collaborative actions was truly inspiring! We would like to thank all who attended, including our partners from Mystic River Watershed Association and 350Mass and the representatives from seven Greater Boston Communities. Stay tuned for future Summits in your region soon!
