Message from the Founder

DSC_5522_1If you are taking the time to read this, you are likely already aware that we are in a period that is unprecedented in all of human history. The science on climate change is in – and it is unequivocal. We have changed the basic chemistry of our planet and we are continuing to do so on a daily basis.

The consequences of unmitigated climate change are catastrophic yet the measures proposed by governments and industry are certain to lead us to this fate. These institutions have failed us and we are running out of time. If we want to avoid disaster, we need to re-evaluate much of what we take for granted and begin to seek new solutions for living in harmony with all life on earth.

The entrenched interests at federal and provincial levels of government make these institutions virtually incapable of addressing the greatest challenge of our time – but communities of concerned citizens across our country care and want to make a difference. This is why our first campaign seeks to empower bold leadership at the local level. With almost 4,000 municipalities in Canada, I like our odds of getting things done. Many of these communities are small. It may take just three representatives to pass a by-law that will ripple across the world and change the course of human history.

We are in the middle of a planetary emergency. It’s time we #FaceTheChange.

Rob Shirkey, H.B.B.A., LL.B.
Executive Director
Our Horizon

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[Rob Shirkey is a lawyer from Toronto, Canada. Prior to launching Our Horizon, Rob operated a private practice in downtown Toronto. He also has experience as an Assistant City Solicitor and Prosecutor. Before completing his law degree, Rob studied business, economics, and psychology at the undergraduate level. He graduated with distinction and was the university valedictorian. Rob’s goal in life is simple: when a kid asks him, “What did you do to stop climate change?” he just wants to be able to look that kid in the eye and honestly say he did everything he could.]

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