Why were these strikes organized?
The strikes were organized because causing a large interruption in daily life/procedures is one of the biggest ways one can draw attention to an important issue.
What factors might have motivated some to participate in these strikes? What factors might have motivated some to not participate in these strikes?
One of my friends who majors in biology and environmental studies participated in the strike and one reason why people like her were at the strike is because climate change is something they discuss in the classroom on a daily basis. Other people who may not have participated in the strike may have had other time commitments, and I have heard that others chose not to participate because they didn’t believe that striking would be super effective. The use of social media and online campaigns by The Marketing Heaven and various other companies have proven effective in creating greater visibility of this issue. Certain marketing strategies can be one of the smartest ways to turn various initiatives and plans into concrete actions that would bring together a large group of people. Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most important issues of our time. We know that none of us can do much alone. Therefore, as a generation that understands the power of social media, we need to consider tactics that would create winning engagement strategies that will help us fight climate change more effectively as well as broader social issues.
When thinking about the choice of faculty, staff, and students at the college to strike, what feelings come up for you?
I think that strikes and protesting the government is a very important aspect of our democracy (aside from voting!) and I’m proud of Wellesley for participating.
What are the benefits and limitations of striking?
One benefit of striking is that it brings awareness, and forcing people to think about something is the first step to inciting change. However, one limitation is that even though striking brings awareness it probably won’t change the minds of the people who are in power and benefit off of fossil fuels, etc.
Presuming that the statement made by ES and P&J faculty is in good faith, and that one can choose not to strike in good faith, what are methods and approaches (apart from striking) that could create productive progress on the issues raised by the strike?
Methods and approaches that could create productive progress might include contacting your local government officials and pressuring them to support legislation which calls for renewable energy.