Montana Youth Make History!
Sixteen young people across Montana are suing the State through the historic climate case, Held v. State of Montana, to protect their equal rights to a healthy environment, life, dignity, and freedom. They are suing because their government is continuing to promote and support fossil fuel extraction and burning, which is worsening the climate crisis and harming these youths’ lives. This is the FIRST-EVER constitutional climate trial in the U.S.--led by Montana youth!
Join us in Helena on June 12 & 13 to support the youth plaintiffs and stand up for climate justice!
The trial will take place June 12-23 at the First Judicial District Court, 228 E Broadway St, Helena, MT 59601. Court is scheduled for 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. weekdays. There will be activities and events led by various groups throughout the full two weeks.
Families for a Livable Climate will be attending June 12 & 13. Join us in Helena to show support for the courageous youth plaintiffs, stand witness to these historic events, and commit to protect the future of all young Montanans through meaningful climate action.
Schedule & details
MONDAY, JUNE 12:
Meet between 8 and 8:15am at the First Judicial District Court (228 E Broadway St, Helena) to greet and cheer on the plaintiffs as they enter the courthouse.
Head to the Myrna Loy Theater at 9am to watch the court proceedings via live stream, participate in activities, and gather in community with supporters.
Lunch: 12-1:30pm - We will lead an activity with plaintiff parents in the Myrna Loy Theater to collect pledges from parents and supporters who commit to protect Montana youth and take climate action.
Meet at Pioneer Park at 5:30 for a rally featuring a youth plaintiff, attorney, and the Park High School Green Initiative.
TUESDAY, JUNE 13:
Meet between 8 and 8:15am at the First Judicial District Court (228 E Broadway St, Helena) to greet and cheer on the plaintiffs as they enter the courthouse.
Head to the Myrna Loy Theater at 9am to watch the court proceedings via live stream, participate in activities, and gather in community with supporters.
Our Children’s Trust will host a live stream on their Facebook page at 5:30pm featuring trial highlights from the first two days and information about what’s to come.
Transportation & accommodations
BUS FROM MISSOULA - JUNE 12: Sierra Club Montana is providing a bus from Missoula to Helena for the first day of the trial on Monday, June 12. The bus will board at 6:00 am from the Seventh Day Adventist Church (800 South Ave. West), depart at 6:15 and return to Missoula around 4:30 p.m. The bus has 47 seats. SIGN UP HERE.
HOMESTAYS: Sleeping Giant Citizens Council is coordinating homestays throughout the trial for folks who will be staying in Helena overnight. Reach out to emily@northernplains.org for more information.
HELENA PARKING RESOURCES:
Public Parking Map: Recommend parking in areas highlighted in Blue and Green. There is a parking garage near the courthouse off of Broadway.