By Tracey Edwards and Princess Charles

Caribbean activists participated in the Renew Our Power Gathering (ROP) held in Brasília, Brazil from April 13–17. This space where 200 people from all over the world attended, was an unique oportunitiny to connect local issues and actions with things that are happening all over the planet .The gathering allowed participants to feel recharged and motivated to grow their climate work. Here is what two Caribbean participants had to say about their amazing experiences:

Tracey Edwards, Jamaica

[The gathering] was an all-inspiring five days surrounded by amazing and fearless global activists from across the world. It was deeply moving to hear so many stories; stories of struggle, resilience, and hope. It was empowering to know that over 70 countries had gathered with one voice, united in the call for change. The fossil fuel industry must give way to renewable energy. The backhand of this industry has harmed, and is still harming people everywhere.

Knowing that I am not alone, that I am standing at the heart of this crisis alongside so many others who understand its impacts fills me with strength anddetermination.Energy poverty is real. Energy security is what we want. It is our fundamental right to thrive, not just survive.

 

Princess Charles, Trinidad and Tobago

The Renew Our Power Gathering reinforced the need for a just energy transition. As a Caribbean national and representative of the Trinidad and Tobago Climate Network, sharing this space with regional and international attendees was a clear reminder that  there is a collective fight for a more sustainable and equitable future. The gathering fueled my motivation and drive to strategize toward inclusive actions where renewable energy is accessible for communities in Trinidad and Tobago.

I was particularly inspired by the intersectionality of energy justice through a gender-responsive lens, with accounts from speakers on how gender disparities heighten energy poverty for girls and women. The need for a just energy transition is possible and the gathering reinforced that communities deserve to own their power. Our collective experiences solidify why it’s necessary to decentralize the fossil fuel industry.