Rights for Climate Protests

In a critical examination of contemporary economic systems, the text questions why humanity would engage in the destruction of its own life support systems. It argues that human-made rules, such as corporate laws prioritizing profit over wellbeing, have fostered an economy dominated by psychopathic entities. These actors, including banks and corporations, are depicted as willing to sacrifice the planet for their financial gain, leading to a systemic pathology referred to as Wetiko by Indigenous Algonquin peoples. This concept symbolizes a cannibalistic spirit that drives insatiable greed and consumption. The text highlights that similar notions exist across various cultures, serving as warnings against unchecked selfishness. It notes that these warnings have largely been ignored in Western economies, which have historically marginalized and oppressed Indigenous cultures. The term "white man’s disease" is used to describe this pervasive mindset, emphasizing the need for a systemic change rather than merely addressing political party failures. The emergence of Extinction Rebellion (XR) in 2018 is presented as a response to this systemic issue, advocating for a citizens’ assembly on climate and nature. This approach draws on historical practices of communal decision-making, aiming to empower people to take control of their governance. However, the text acknowledges the resistance to change within the current anti-life system, which threatens to push the climate into a perilous state. In conclusion, the movement calls for collective reflection and action, urging individuals to reconnect with their identities and communities while supporting global struggles for justice and sustainability.