This past October 24, the most widespread political action in the world took place. In more than 5000 places around the world, ordinary people came together on one extraordinary day to let world leaders know that they must reach a strong climate deal this year that gets us on the path to 350 parts per million of carbon in the atmosphere — the only safe level.

In Egypt, more than a dozen events took place, including a bike ride from Cairo to the Great Pyramids at Giza and a 350-sailboat race on the Red Sea.

A short six weeks later, nearing the midpoint of the Copenhagen climate talks, all the world is watching as delegate from 190 countries debate the future of the planet. In many ways, it seems like nothing’s changed since the Kyoto Protocol was negotiated more than a decade ago: Most rich countries still refuse to make meaningful cuts in greenhouse gas emissions, poor and developing countries feel they have the right to development, and thus to emit carbon.

But there’s one palpable difference here in Copenhagen — delegates from every country know that there is a powerful movement stirring in nearly every country in the world for a strong deal, and that it won’t go away until a fair, binding and ambitious deal is signed.

That’s why this coming weekend all over the world, concerned citizens will once again join their neighbors and friends — this time at US embassies in addition to other public places — for solemn candlelight processions and vigils. These vigils will help drive the number 350 into the political debate here in Copenhagen, and honor those most affected by climate change now and in the future. It is up to us to hold our leaders accountable and help ensure the survival of all people.

**There will be vigils in Cairo held on Friday and Saturday. For more information, please contact 350.org or to join in taking action by attending a vigil. To find one near you, go to http://350.org/map

*Aroneanu is a spokesperson for 350.org.

BM

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