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Challenging Injustice, Advancing Human Rights

The Unitarian Universalist Service Committee advances human rights through grassroots collaborations.

Tell Your Story: Join the Witness Stand for Climate Justice

From personal testimony to powerful change—see how your voice can make climate justice real.

The Call for Climate Justice: A Global Movement in Motion

Imagine watching your homeland swallowed by rising seas or seeing your community devastated by hurricanes, floods, and unrelenting fires. For millions around the world, especially in the Pacific Islands, these scenes are not hypothetical—they are happening now, transforming lives and futures in unimaginable ways. The reality of this crisis extends beyond the environment; it threatens entire cultures, traditions, and the very existence of communities that have done the least to cause it.

For too long, those most affected by climate devastation have been overlooked by decision-makers and world powers. But now, a historic opportunity for change is on the horizon. The International Court of Justice (ICJ), the world’s highest judicial authority, is preparing to issue an advisory opinion on climate justice, a decision that could change the way the world addresses the climate crisis. This case has the potential to set a powerful precedent, clarifying the legal obligations of governments to protect vulnerable communities from the impacts of climate change. 

This is the largest climate case in history, spearheaded by a small but determined group of Pacific Island students—Pacific Island Students Fighting Climate Change (PISFCC). They invite you to share your story with the ICJ through the Witness Stand project, ensuring voices from every corner of the globe are heard. Together, we can make climate justice personal and undeniable.

Meet PISFCC: A Movement Rooted in Courage and Collective Power

PISFCC isn’t just an organization—they are a movement born from courage and a shared commitment to safeguarding the future. In 2019, 27 students from the University of the South Pacific, witnessing their islands vanish under a climate crisis they didn’t cause, transformed their deep-rooted concern into bold, decisive action. Forging an unprecedented path to the International Court of Justice, they launched the world’s biggest climate justice campaign, uniting voices globally to demand accountability from nations for their climate obligations.

PISFCC’s impact lies in its ability to rally everyday people, giving power to voices often overlooked in global decisions. Through the Witness Stand project, PISFCC invites you—whether affected directly by the crisis or an ally in solidarity—to speak directly to the ICJ judges. Today you have the opportunity to contribute your voice to a powerful global movement, amplifying stories of resilience and urgent calls for justice to compel leaders to protect communities worldwide from the devastating impacts of climate change.

Be Seen, Be Heard—Your Guide to Creating a Powerful Witness Video

Lights, Camera, Climate Justice: Tips for Making Your Video

Your Witness Stand video is a chance to reach the judges of the ICJ directly. Speak from the heart, keep it simple, and share what drives you to demand action. Click here for a full in-depth guide by PISFCC. 

  1. Open Strong: Begin with “Dear Judges of the International Court of Justice…” and introduce yourself. Share where you’re from and a bit about your community—bring them into your world.
  2. Make It Real: Describe how the climate crisis has impacted your life, family, or community. If you’re fighting for others or advocating for a livable future, share your motivation. Here are a few ideas to spark your message:
    • What’s your story? Describe a climate impact you’ve faced or feared.
    • Who do you represent? Tell the judges who you’re standing up for.
    • What’s your hope? Speak about the future you want to protect.
  3. Close with a Challenge: Finish by calling on the ICJ to answer your demand for climate justice. A powerful closing might be, “Dear Judges, will you answer our call?”

Quick Tips for Filming Your Testimonial

  • Record in portrait mode (9:16), and look directly into the camera.
  • Find good natural light and avoid backlighting—let your face be clearly seen.
  • Choose a quiet spot, and project your voice so every word is heard.
  • Keep in mind that story or message shouldn’t be longer than 5mins.
  • Don’t worry about perfection. What matters is your genuine voice and the story only you can tell.

Spread the Word and Inspire Action

Share and Hashtag

Post your video on social media using #ClimateWitness and #WitnessStand to join the growing community and ensure your video is featured on the Witness Stand Social Wall at witnessstand.live. Invite others to add their voices, creating a wave of testimonials that echo across borders.

Imagine the Impact

Every story submitted brings us one step closer to climate accountability. Let’s make climate justice personal. Join the Witness Stand, share your truth, and let the ICJ see the lives at stake. This is our moment to rise as one. Will you answer the call?

Image credit: UUSC