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I’m learning that it’s OK to be terrified of failure and do something anyway.I’ve been so inspired by the brave leadership of the youth climate activists who started a global movement of civil disobedience on Fridays.Seeing the fires in Australia and other major consequences of climate change has led me to question my own climate activism and how I can do more to engage my industry and community. Over the holidays, I had a lightbulb moment. I realized the Outdoor Retailer tradeshow, one of the largest gatherings of the outdoor industry in North America, was taking place on a Friday. How about organizing a climate rally on January 31, the final day of the show, to mobilize my industry, support the leadership of the youth activists, and rally for climate action?I called my friend @katieboue to get her opinion. She’s been a longtime buddy in activism with me – we’re marched and lobbied together and she’s very good at environmental messaging.She loved the idea and agreed to work on it together. I applied for a rally permit at the Colorado Capitol that afternoon. I wasn’t sure I’d get the permit, but on December 31, my birthday, the permit was approved.Now, the pit in my stomach started to grow. I’ve done some hard things in my life. How much harder could this be?Turns out, planning a mass demonstration is hard and scary, like climbing a big mountain. I’m pushing way past my comfort zone and I’m terrified I’m going to be a failure. But I’m doing it anyway.I’ve sent over hundreds of emails to non-profits, youth activists, brands and government. I’m coordinating speakers. My mind keeps telling me I’m going to fail as my imposter syndrome rages on.Then I ask myself, so what if I do? So what if only ten people march? The important thing is that we show up and speak up. I believe in the power of our community and I’m so grateful for your support. I can’t wait to see your lovely faces in Denver on January 31 at the #ClimateRally2020. For those of you who can’t make it, we will be launching a toolkit with the @outdooradvocacy project. Stay tuned for more…
