People have been conducting strikes as a method of demanding change for many years. With our climate on the brink of collapse and our communities already suffering from its impacts and the potential for effective action so uncertain, such a worldwide event to try to effect climate change action is paramount.

On September 20, millions of people worldwide will walk out of their classes, jobs and homes as part of a Global Climate Strike, with many organized events taking place nationwide.

“One day of striking won’t solve everything, but it will show those in power that we refuse to stand by in the face of climate crisis,” says Tamara Toles O’Laughlin, North American director of 350.org, a renewable-energy action nonprofit that is working to organize weeklong events. “It’ll show the world who the real villains of the story are. And if we’re numerous and loud enough, it will be the spark that helps turn the tide. And that’s all we really need.”

Visit 350.org to find the nearest event or to create one.