This Montana Youth Reflects on Earth Month, Her Victorious Climate Lawsuit and the Lawsuit That Inspired It
April 4, 2024
Eva is one the young plaintiffs in the historic Held v. State of Montana lawsuit brought by Our Children’s Trust, and this Earth Month, she's reflecting on the case's influence on her and her community, the significance of youth-powered justice, and expressing what this special month signifies to her.
Eva testifying during trial (June 2023) in Helena, Montana.
How has your case impacted you and your community?
The case has really helped me understand the power of using my voice. My community, I believe, has been inspired by this case’s success and what it means for our futures. It has sparked excitement and action in people old and young, and brought forth so much support and love.
What does it mean to you to have courts, governments, and the world hear your voice and your story?
Being heard in court is incredibly validating, and proof that we are making progress. It provides so much hope and incites action to continue pushing for a safer, cleaner, and stable future. During my testimony and the testimony of my fellow plaintiffs, the people in the room and those watching from all over were hanging on our every word. To feel that, especially when you’re the one in the spotlight, is very fulfilling and significant.
Why is it important for you to support your fellow youth plaintiffs even across cases?
It’s always important to support each other, no matter where we are or what we’re doing in life. All of us plaintiffs are going through a unique experience, and it’s good to know we’re in this together. Finding connections and camaraderie when it comes to climate justice or equality is crucial to moving forward and making change.
What does the Juliana v. U.S. case mean to you?
The Juliana case is so incredibly important. And right now, it’s under threat. Which means their futures—our futures—are as well.
Juliana is representing America’s fight for climate justice, and they need to proceed to trial and have their voices heard.
Without them, our case wouldn’t be where it is today. And despite everything that’s been thrown their way, the Juliana 21 continue to persevere.
What does Earth Month mean to you?
Earth Month is a time of year when we celebrate the world in which we live. Perhaps something that we probably should be doing daily! It’s a great time to involve yourself in what your local community is doing for this month and participate however you can! It’s a great way to help out, learn, and take care of our planet while you’re at it.
What do you love about the part of the Earth you call home?
What I love about the place I live is the closeness to the land we have here. Montana’s home to so much wildlife, wilderness, and bits of nowhere. There’s a deep connection that comes with seeing only sky and land stretch on as far as the eye can see.
What would you say to those who feel they cannot make a difference?
Your words, your actions, and your heart matter. Truly, anyone can make a difference. If you can, just talk about an issue you care about. Change often begins with conversation, with a small action that can get the ball rolling. Look for like-minded individuals who will support you, and though sometimes it’s difficult, stay hopeful. When I’m about to do something difficult, I try to think of all the people on my side. And know that what you say will resonate with someone, even if it doesn’t always seem like others are in favor of it.
