Faces of the Rebellion: Amy Luschwitz

Who are the ordinary people behind Extinction Rebellion Northern Illawarra and the extraordinary global movement? In the first of this series, Kristen McDonald introduces Amy Luschwitz, from Thirroul.

“We all have to step up and take responsibility” is a motto I firmly believe in. If you listen to the science, we are in an urgent climate crisis and drastic action is needed to avoid its worst effects. But neither Greta Thunberg nor Scott Morrison alone can save us. We all need to take responsibility and do something.

This is why I helped establish Extinction Rebellion Northern Illawarra (XRNI). One day my friends and I called a community meeting to see who might be interested in becoming active on climate change. I never expected more than 100 people would show up!

The sense of community and connection that I have felt through this group makes me love where we live. Whilst many conversations and opinions are diverse, it is clear we agree that all levels of government need to drastically reduce carbon emissions now – not in 2050 when it will be too late.

I’m terrified my daughter’s future will be compromised, but I won’t sit idly by. And I encourage you to get active in some way as well. You can join XRNI, or any other number of climate initiatives that are happening locally or worldwide. You can help with your time, money, ideas or your consumer choices. The point is to take action.”

Visit www.xrnorthernillawarra.org