GIFF JOHNSON
Jo-Jikum’s Climate Adaptation Arts Seminar is into its second week at Marshall Islands High School with nearly 50 young people participating in the program.
When the seminar started a week ago Monday, there were fewer than 40. But once things kicked off, and word of mouth and social media posts by youth participants spread, more young people showed up.
“Since we started last week Monday, participants have been coming in and registering on the spot,” said Danity Laukon, one of the seminar organizers.
The participants are learning about Marshall Islands initiatives to adapt to impacts of nuclear weapons testing, climate effects on health, how to conserve the islands, how to mitigate climate impacts, and “most importantly how we as youth do our part in contributing to the National Adaptation Plan,” said a report on the first week on Jo-Jikum’s Facebook page.
Absorbing this knowledge from multiple presenters, youth are working on art pieces to express their views on current issues using creative arts of photography, songwriting, painting, and weaving.
The original art works of the participants will be showcased at Marshall Islands Resort poolside this Friday August 8 from 6:30pm, an activity that the public is encouraged to join in.
Multiple partners are collaborating with Jo-Jikum, including the Ministry of Health and Environment, Marshall Islands Conservation Society, the National Energy Office and the National Nuclear Commission.