Where, When, and How?

Fridays for Future demonstrations take place in various locations and follow a specific timeline:

Where:

• Public spaces and politically significant locations in participating cities
• Government buildings, city centers, and other high-visibility areas

When:

• August 2018: Greta Thunberg's first demonstration in front of the Swedish Parliament in Stockholm
• December 2018: First demonstration in Germany
• Ongoing: The movement continues with regular Friday demonstrations

How:

• Organized demonstrations and rallies
• Creation and display of posters and banners
• Online activism through blogs and social media
• Use of catchy slogans and chants

Example: A popular slogan used in Fridays for Future demonstrations is "What do we want? Climate Justice! When do we want it? NOW!!!"

The movement utilizes a combination of physical presence and digital activism to spread its message and maintain momentum. By consistently demonstrating every Friday, Fridays for Future has established a regular, visible presence in many cities around the world.

Highlight: The choice of Fridays for demonstrations is strategic, as it disrupts the regular school week and draws attention to the urgency of climate action over traditional education.

Fridays for Future During the Pandemic

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the Fridays for Future movement, forcing it to adapt its strategies and methods:

1. Suspension of traditional practices:

   • Large-scale events and demonstrations were halted due to public health concerns.
   • The movement had to reimagine its approach to activism in a socially distanced world.

2. Shift to virtual engagement:

   • Members participated in online workshops and webinars.
   • Digital platforms became crucial for maintaining momentum and connection.

3. Innovation and progress:

   • The movement used the pandemic as an opportunity to develop new ideas and strategies.
   • Focus shifted to online campaigns and remote activism techniques.

Highlight: The pandemic period demonstrated the resilience and adaptability of the Fridays for Future movement, as it found new ways to continue its mission despite physical restrictions.

4. Solidarity during crisis:

   • The movement emphasized the interconnectedness of global crises, linking climate change to public health and social justice issues.
   • Activists showed support for frontline workers and vulnerable communities affected by both the pandemic and climate change.

5. Continued commitment:

   • Despite challenges, Fridays for Future activists did not give up their cause.
   • The movement maintained its pressure on governments and corporations to address climate change, even during the global health crisis.

Example: During the pandemic, Fridays for Future organized global digital strikes, where participants posted photos of themselves with protest signs on social media, using hashtags to create a virtual demonstration.

6. Lessons learned:
   • The movement gained experience in remote organizing and digital activism.
   • New strategies developed during this period may continue to be used even as in-person events resume.

The pandemic period highlighted the movement's ability to adapt and persist, while also drawing attention to the interconnectedness of global challenges like climate change and public health.