The Impact of Juliana v. United States on Youth Activism and Climate Accountability
In a significant legal development, the U.S. Supreme Court has decided not to reconsider the Juliana v. United States case, effectively putting an end to the youth-led constitutional climate suit first filed in 2015. While the plaintiffs expressed disappointment with the Court’s ruling, they highlighted the case’s extensive positive influence over the past decade.
Background of the Case
Initiated by 21 young plaintiffs, Juliana aimed to hold the U.S. federal government accountable for its role in the climate crisis exacerbated by fossil fuel consumption. The lawsuit gained substantial traction, supported by over 100 members of Congress and numerous advocacy groups globally. A petition filed by the plaintiffs for the Supreme Court to review a lower court’s dismissal of the case was denied on Monday.
Voices of the Plaintiffs
Julia Olson, chief legal counsel from Our Children’s Trust—who represented the plaintiffs—stated, “The Supreme Court’s decision today is not the end of the road and the impact of Juliana cannot be measured by the finality of this case alone.” She emphasized the movement’s growth, asserting that Juliana has inspired a global youth-led movement advocating for climate rights.
“For almost 10 years, we’ve stood up for the rights of present and future generations, demanding a world where we can not only survive but thrive,” said Miko Vergun, a plaintiff born in the climate-vulnerable Marshall Islands. She acknowledged the resistance faced from the federal government, asserting the steadfast resolve of the plaintiffs.
Significance and Future Endeavors
The impact of Juliana is far-reaching, evidenced by recent legal victories that echo its groundbreaking approach. For instance, in August 2023, Judge Kathy Seeley of the Montana District Court ruled in favor of young plaintiffs in Held v. State of Montana, highlighting violations of the state constitution regarding the right to a clean environment. The Montana Supreme Court upheld that decision in December, marking a significant moment in climate litigation.
Lead plaintiff in the Held case, Rikki Held, praised the groundwork laid by Juliana, stating, “I am inspired by the courage and determination of the young people who have led this case, and I hope their legacy continues to motivate others to hold our governments and leaders accountable for the actions that worsen the climate crisis.”
Progressing Towards Justice
Notably, Our Children’s Trust also represented plaintiffs in Navahine v. Hawaii Department of Transportation, which resulted in a historic settlement enforcing systemic decarbonization in state transportation. As plaintiff Mesina D. pointed out, “This historic moment would not have been possible without the blueprint laid by the Juliana youth plaintiffs.”
Call to Action
Despite the Supreme Court’s decision, Julia Olson remains optimistic about future legal endeavors. “We’ve already secured important victories, and we will continue pushing forward. This fight is far from over,” she asserted, encouraging young people to join the movement for climate justice.
Olson’s closing remarks resonated with many: “Juliana has ignited a movement and created a powerful legal framework for future generations to assert their constitutional rights in the face of the climate crisis.” The commitment of Our Children’s Trust to advocate for youth remains unwavering, as they expect to see further cases against the federal government.
Conclusion
While the Supreme Court’s ruling on Juliana has been seen as a setback, its legacy continues to inspire youth-led activism and climate litigation. The determination of the plaintiffs and supporting networks remains a source of momentum in the ongoing struggle for climate accountability.
