WHEREAS October 1st is Canada's National Seniors' Day and the UN International Day of Older Persons. It is a day to recognize the accomplishments and contributions of seniors. Seniors are a significant and diverse demographic, one in four Canadians.

WHEREAS Seniors for Climate is a nationwide mobilization calling for urgent action to address the climate crisis and support a livable future for our children and grandchildren. Communities across Canada are holding rallies and events on October 1^st. Locally, the Seniors for Climate rally takes place from 11:45am to 1:15pm on Tuesday, Oct. 1st, at Hwy 7 at Wilson Street, Perth

WHEREAS along with our children and grandchildren, we face a climate emergency. We are witnessing the degradation of the natural environment, loss of biodiversity, mass extinction, deadly·heat waves, wildfires, floods, and violent, destructive storms.

WHEREAS we must reduce carbon emission for a livable future. We know that is possible. Extreme weather is the symptom. Fossil fuel pollution is the cause. We need faster and better action by all levels of government to phase out fossil fuels, lower carbon emissions, and work towards a just transition to renewable energy. Later is too late!

WHEREAS we need climate action that is broad-based that supports seniors, youth, Indigenous Peoples, and disadvantaged and equity seeking populations. We all need to work together to preserve the planet that we love and depend upon.

WHEREAS the Town of Smiths Falls recognizes the importance of widespread support for Seniors for Climate and its goals.

NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT I Shawn Pankow, Mayor of the Town of Smiths Falls and on behalf of Smiths Falls Town Council, hereby proclaim October 1, 2024 as "Seniors for Climate Day" in the Town of Smiths Falls.

September 23, 2024