Local leaders and advocates gather for May 3 climate conference in Palatine

Community members and climate advocates are invited to attend Climate Action Now!, a half-day conference hosted by Countryside Church Unitarian Universalist’s Green Sanctuary Committee in Palatine on Saturday, May 3.

The event will be held from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the church, 1025 N. Smith St. Learn more at ccuu.org/climate-action-now-conference/.

The morning kicks off with a panel discussion featuring:

• State Rep. Mary Beth Canty

• Dan Huntsha of Faith in Place, an interfaith environmental justice organization

• Representatives from the NW Cook County Sierra Club

These community leaders will share insights into the climate challenges facing our region, and how faith, policy, and grassroots advocacy can drive meaningful change.

Next, the Lead, Listen, Share session will provide participants a deeper look at current climate legislation and invite direct community input on Illinois’ legislative priorities for 2025 and beyond.

The event will wrap up with Action Tables, where attendees can connect with local climate-focused organizations and take immediate steps toward advocacy.

At the Faith in Place table, participants can sign up for Advocacy Day in Springfield on May 21, an opportunity to make your voice heard at the state level.

Register for Climate Action Now at bit.ly/climate-action-palatine.

“This event is about turning concern into commitment, and values into action,” said organizers from Countryside Church UU. “We’re here to build community, share knowledge, and inspire real-world impact.”

Admission is free and open to all.