ANNAPOLIS, MD — Today, Governor Wes Moore delivered a speech focused on climate and economic justice during the opening ceremony of Climate Week New York City 2023.
Climate Week NYC is the largest annual climate event of its kind, bringing together some 400 events and activities across the City of New York – in person, hybrid and online.
Excerpts from Governor Moore’s speech as prepared:“The climate crisis isn’t some far-off threat, it’s already here. And that’s especially true for those who’ve been historically left behind.”
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“Hitting our goals will help us defend against the consequences of climate change. But I’m not here to just talk about avoiding tragedy – I’m here to talk about helping people find greater opportunity.”
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“Our communities of color – our working parents – our middle-class families: They are the ones who stand to benefit most from our aggressive climate goals. Those are the hands that will install new solar panels at the local rec center. Those are the minds that will invent next-generation wind turbines that power millions of homes. Those are the hearts that will shape a stronger America, where we aren’t just building pathways to sustainability – we’re also building pathways to work, wages, and wealth.”
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“It's not enough to ask people to see themselves in the consequences – they need to see themselves in the progress. Climate justice is economic justice.”
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“This is about whether or not we can dominate industries of the future, instead of relying on industries of the past. This is about whether or not we can bring manufacturing jobs home, instead of relying on foreign labor. This is about whether or not the clean energy revolution will close the wealth gap, instead of being just another way to make it bigger.”
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“Now, it’s up to us to build our coalition by making sure people understand just how much they stand to gain from the movement we’re building – and showing them exactly what that looks like.”
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“This can’t be about partisan talking points. This can’t be about political punchlines. This is about building an economy that works for everyone– From our big cities to our rural towns– From our Blue states to our Red ones– From Wall Street to Main Street, and everywhere in between.”
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“The climate crisis represents a generational opportunity to grow an economy that leaves no one behind. And if we can help people recognize that truth, I know we will meet this moment, united – and build a better, more sustainable, more resilient, and more equitable future for everyone.”Climate Week NYC is held in partnership with the
United Nations General Assembly and is run in coordination with the United Nations and the City of New York.