Xiye Bastida’s Fridays for Future: Empowering Colombian Youth Against Climate Injustice

As historians dedicated to understanding the multifaceted tapestry of human history, we often find ourselves captivated by pivotal moments that reshape societies and inspire generations to come. Such a moment unfolded in Colombia with the emergence of Xiye Bastida, a young indigenous climate activist whose unwavering passion ignited a movement across Latin America.

Xiye Bastida’s story is not just about one individual; it’s about the collective awakening of a generation facing the existential threat of climate change. Born and raised in Queens, New York, to Colombian parents, Xiye’s connection to her ancestral land ran deep. Her grandmother, a member of the Mixtec indigenous community in Oaxaca, Mexico, instilled in her a profound respect for nature and its delicate balance.

Xiye witnessed firsthand the devastating impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, particularly those living in the Global South. Floods ravaged coastal towns in Colombia, droughts parched agricultural lands, and extreme weather events became increasingly frequent and severe. These experiences ignited a fire within Xiye; she knew she had to act.

Inspired by Greta Thunberg’s school strikes in Sweden, Xiye co-founded Fridays for Future (FFF) Colombia in 2019. This youth-led movement, which quickly gained momentum across the globe, called upon world leaders and policymakers to take urgent action on climate change.

The inaugural FFF Colombia protest, held on March 15th, 2019, saw thousands of students from across the country ditching their classrooms and taking to the streets, demanding a sustainable future. Carrying hand-painted banners, chanting powerful slogans, and engaging in peaceful demonstrations, these young activists captured the world’s attention. Xiye, with her articulate voice and compelling personal story, emerged as a prominent leader within the movement.

FFF Colombia’s impact extended beyond street protests. The movement mobilized young people to engage in various forms of climate action:

• Community Outreach: FFF activists organized educational workshops and events in local communities, raising awareness about the impacts of climate change and empowering individuals to make sustainable choices.
• Policy Advocacy: FFF Colombia collaborated with NGOs and environmental groups to lobby policymakers for stronger climate legislation and policies.

The movement’s success stemmed from its inclusive nature and its ability to connect with diverse segments of Colombian society. From indigenous communities in the Amazon rainforest to urban centers, young people united under the banner of climate justice.

FFF Colombia faced its share of challenges, including skepticism from some adults who dismissed the movement as youthful idealism. But Xiye Bastida and her fellow activists persevered, demonstrating that youth voices deserve to be heard on critical issues affecting the planet’s future.

The consequences of FFF Colombia were far-reaching:

• Raised awareness: The movement brought the issue of climate change into mainstream discourse in Colombia, forcing politicians and policymakers to address the concerns of young people.
• Inspired activism: FFF Colombia served as a catalyst for other youth-led environmental movements across Latin America.

Xiye Bastida’s story continues to inspire hope and action. She is living proof that individuals, even those who are young, can make a difference in addressing global challenges. Her work reminds us that the future is not predetermined; it is shaped by the choices we make today.