This special series of posts is produced by Juliet Pinto (Florida International University) and Phaedra Pezzullo (University of Colorado-Boulder)

In collaboration with International Environmental Communication Association, FIU’s Sea Level Solutions Center, and eyesontherise.org. Both Pinto and Pezzullo are attending COP21 in Paris.

By Phaedra Pezzullo, from Paris

(An automated email alert sent by my university to my inbox this morning)

Members should avoid all demonstrations by environmental activists due to take place in the coming days in several European capital and main cities as a basic security precaution. … Avoid all protests related to the COP21 Conference due to the risk of localised violence between participants and the police. Any unrest is likely to be swiftly contained by the police, though may temporarily pose incidental risks to bystanders.” (International SOS Security Advisories, 11/27/15)

(Conversation in my living room this morning)

“Ma, why do you have to leave today?”

“Well, honey, I think climate change is the most important issue today, and

I have an opportunity to help bring attention to it. (Pause) To help your

future be safer.”

 

As my almost 6 year old looked at me with skepticism, I wondered if my child sensed my doubt. Would going make a difference? Who am I to think I matter? […]