global climate strike

Support the Global Climate Strike

Businesses throughout Vermont and across the world are looking for ways to support their employees and communities in advance of the September 20, 2019 Global Climate Strike. As a business owner you can sign this joint business statement on the global strike with SunCommon, Ben & Jerry’s, Patagonia, Seventh Generation, Burton, MegaFood and others. The intent of the statement is to clearly demonstrate in one voice our concern for the gravity of the climate crisis and to stand with the youth demanding bold action on global climate policy. It will appear in media, on websites, on social media. Deadline for sign-ons is COB Friday 13, 2019.

In addition to signing on to the join statement, VBSR member SunCommon has developed an internal policy to ensure that all staff can join the strike, or participate in other acts of solidarity, without penalty. SunCommon has shared their internal policy here for any VBSR members looking take a similar step in advance of the Global Climate Strike. Read their policy below:

In support of the September 20, Global Climate Strike. 

SunCommon supports an engaged and informed citizenry. Employees are encouraged to vote, participate in town meeting day, and attend public rallies that support critical progressive action, and may do so on company time if necessary. 

SunCommon stands with the hundreds of thousands of people that will be rallying around the world on September 20 to demand an end to fossil fuels. We recognize that some of our employees may feel compelled to join the movement by striking on that day, so while our business will stay open for the day, we support our employees, and will not penalize anyone for joining the rally. 

Some SunCommon teams will be encouraged to attend the rally in person, capturing stories and supporting other attendees with joyful engagement. Other teams will continue their work at SunCommon for the day, but will have an opportunity to pause to recognize the gravity of our climate crisis through acts of solidarity. Any individuals on teams that are continuing to work, but want to strike, are encouraged to talk to their manager about how they can do that, and again, they will not be penalized.