Betrayal

As young people, we feel betrayed by older generations’ climate inaction.

We can feel betrayed when somebody has not kept their promises or done what they should have done. There are lots of feelings of climate betrayal towards decision-makers and fossil fuel companies.

Question: How to recognize valid feelings of betrayal and use them to fuel our determination to speak the truth?

Action

Put your trust into people doing the work

If leaders or institutions have let you down, look for people acting differently. Support a local group, learn who is pushing for change, ask tough questions, or help hold your school, community, or leaders accountable.
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Why climate betrayal hurts

Betrayal can happen when people or institutions we expected to protect our future fail to act. It can be especially painful to realize that warnings were ignored or decisions were made despite known climate risks.
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Learn

Others have felt let down too

Young people often describe feeling betrayed by adults, leaders, companies, or systems they were taught to trust. Their stories show how disappointment in institutions can lead to asking harder questions and demanding better.

Stories

Hear some stories

The Weather Within is not a crisis service, but support is available. If you are in immediate danger, call 911.

If you need immediate emotional support, call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, or text HOME or HOLA to 741741 to connect with a trained volunteer Crisis Counselor through Crisis Text Line. Support is available 24/7.

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