Swedish activist Greta Thunberg in Edmonton for climate rally; counter-rally planned

A convoy of energy supporters is leaving Red Deer, Alberta and headed to Edmonton. Jonathan Muma with the message they have for climate activist Greta Thunberg.

EDMONTON — Albertans are planning to hit Edmonton’s streets today to support — or protest — Swedish climate campaigner Greta Thunberg’s visit.

Climate Justice Edmonton has announced that the 16-year-old Stockholm student will join a march from a downtown Edmonton park to a climate rally at the Alberta legislature.

A group of oil and gas supporters is planning a counter-rally at the same time.

United We Roll says its members are frustrated with celebrities visiting the province and telling Albertans how to run their business.

Glen Carritt, who organized the United We Roll convoy that travelled to Ottawa in February, says a similar convoy will start in Red Deer, Alta., on Friday morning and make its way to Edmonton.

Carritt says the trucks are expected to arrive at the legislature at noon, when a climate rally is to begin with 16-year-old Thunberg.

Thunberg has been making international headlines, meeting with politicians and leading protests demanding governments take action to address climate change. She has also criticized world leaders, who she accuses of letting down youth by doing too little to tackle the issue.

Premier Jason Kenney has said the Alberta government won’t seek out a meeting with the teen, but hopes she takes time to learn how the province has some of the greenest oil and gas rules in the world.

He added he hopes Thunberg gets a warm welcome — even from people who disagree with her.

The Edmonton Police Service said they are aware of the climate rally and convoy counter-protest and they have prepared for this event as they would for any other major city event.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Oct. 18, 2019.

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