The Central Coast Greens are developing a new strategy on what the region might look like beyond COVID-19 and how to make that happen.
Last month they hosted the first in a series of online panel discussions on their Green New Deal for the Central Coast, with a second discussion set for July 25.
The upcoming event will focus on education and feature civil and environmental engineer and life-long activist for social and environmental justice NSW Greens Senator, Mehreen Faruqi, Climate Emergency Coordinator for the NSW Teachers Federation, Kelly Marks, and former President of the Australian Teachers’ Union, writer and local activist, Van Davy.
Marks has a long history in education and the NSW Teachers Federation since 2007 and her involvement highlights the NSW Teachers Federation’s aim to take a leadership role in the global climate change response.
Faruqi has been a life-long activist for social and environmental justice and an outspoken advocate for public education, social housing and animal welfare.
In 2013, she became the first Muslim woman to sit in an Australian parliament and in 2018, she became Australia’s first Muslim senator.
Davy advocates replacing coal, oil, gas, poisons and some fertilisers with benign or regenerative industries.
Organiser Chantelle Baistow said the first Zoom forum on June 20 received positive feedback.
“We aim to create a forum to discuss what progress is already being made, and where the practical opportunities lie in the economy after COVID-19,” she said.
“This is a crucial time for regeneration and renewable industries, while also making sure a just and diverse transition is made with sustainable job opportunities and support.
The forum will be conducted from 11am-12.30pm on July 25 and people can register online via contact-nsw.greens.org.au.
Terry Collins