Barack Obama and Greta Thunberg just became “a team” in an iconic video
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- Hollie Richardson
- Published
Barack Obama has shared a video of the moment that he met Greta Thunberg to talk about her role as an activist. And it is one inspiring watch…
This Friday (20 September), The Global Climate Strike will take place, with thousands of people around the world predicted to walk out of work and protest against global warming. It’s part of environmental activist Greta Thunberg’s movement, with the aim of making world leaders finally realise the devastating impact we are having on the planet.
Right now, Thunberg is in America, after a 15-day carbon emission-free boat voyage across the Atlantic Ocean. She’s there to attend the UN climate summit which takes place on 23 September, and the COP25 climate conference that is happening in Chile during December.
But before all that, Thunberg had an important meeting to attend with former President of America, Barack Obama.
The Obama Foundation shared a video of the meeting, which sees Thunberg and Obama fist-pumping after having a chat about activism and climate change.
“Greta, how are you? It’s very good to see you again,” Obama said, while shaking Thunberg’s hand.
“You’re changing the world, so we’re very excited to have you,” he continued. “How are you finding so far, the Friday strikes? How did they go in New York and how did they go in Washington?”
“Very well,” replied Thunberg. “Everyone is so nice and all these young people seem so eager, very enthusiastic which is a very good thing.
She added: “I mean, no one is too small to have an impact and change the world, so just do everything you can. Be creative.”
Obama told her: “You and me, we’re a team.”
The pair then shared a fist pump, before wishing each other good luck.
Obama later shared an Instagram post about of the moment, writing: “At just 16 years old, @GretaThunberg is already one of our planet’s greatest advocates.
Her age might have something to do with it. With full knowledge that her generation will bear the heaviest burden of climate change, she’s unafraid to believe that progress is possible—and fight for real change.
“She’s an example of why Michelle and I started the @ObamaFoundation — because we believe in a future that’s shaped by the courage and hope of young people like Greta.”
Obama’s respect and support for tackling climate change are a far cry from the words and actions of President Donald Trump.
In 2017, Obama called out Trump for withdrawing the US from the Paris climate agreement. Climate crisis denier Trump has also continued to attempt to remove many of the Obama administration’s policies to limit the emissions of greenhouse gases.
With Thunberg leading the charge, the world’s leaders might finally wake up to the reality of climate change. We can help her by joining the march on Friday. Find details here.
Images: Getty