Who are XR? Why Direct Action?
Extinction Rebellion (XR) is a worldwide movement which uses nonviolent direct action (NVDA) to force those in power to act on the climate and ecological global emergency.
We have known we are heading for disaster for over 35 years.* In that time, carbon emissions have increased by 60%.** In the last 50 years, wildlife populations have decreased by an average of 68%. ***
Our governments have not protected us and conventional campaigning has failed. We are almost out of time to change course.
Direct Action (also known as civil disobedience) has a history of achieving change where other methods have failed; for example the Suffrage Movement gained the vote for women by their actions.
We act now for the sake of all life on earth. We aim to halt mass extinction and minimise the risk of social collapse.
We will not be led quietly to extinction by elites and politicians.
References:
*In 1988, climate scientist James Hansen testified before the US congress, provoking the New York Times headline: ‘Global Warming Has Begun, Expert Tells Senate’
**International Energy Agency 2021 report
***World Wildlife Fund Living Planet report 2020
Further information:
Our original Declaration of Rebellion (2018)