You might not expect to find a blind grandmother blockading politicians’ cars as a brazen attempt to get their attention. But this is not only something Sam Noonan has done (as pictured), she is passionate about urging others to join her. Extinction Rebellion Northern Illawarra’s Kristen McDonald interviews Sam to find out why.

“Being blind hasn’t stopped me from wanting to take a stand, in fact, I hope it encourages others out of complacency. 

“I think more ordinary people like me need to use nonviolent direct action to confront the systems of power which fail to act on climate change. Ghandi, the suffragettes, the Freedom Riders – to name a few – all used civil disobedience to bring about the changes which we benefit from today. Protests and petitions unfortunately are no longer enough. 

“As David Attenborough said, we cannot be radical enough. I urge everyone to consider taking direct action, which isn’t as scary as you might think. And it’s also not all about daredevil illegal actions. 

“The climate movement needs all sorts of people volunteering their skills, from art and media to wellbeing and education. 

“I’d love to answer any of your questions on taking nonviolent direct action, so please get
in touch.” 

Visit www.xrnorthernillawarra.org