Tampere grandparents to stage climate protest on Raatihuone steps Sept. 4

The new Tampere-area chapter of Ilmastoisovanhemmat will hold a climate protest on the Raatihuone steps on Friday, Sept. 4. Earlier this year, Hämeenkatu was also used for public marches, such as the Rollator March in May, Tamperelainen reported.

Ilmastoisovanhemmat was founded in Helsinki in 2019 to press for action on climate change and biodiversity loss. The group set up a local chapter this year and plans regular demonstrations and public events.

National membership is roughly 500, and the Tampere mailing list counts about 50 names. Local coordinator Maija Mäkinen says that number feels small given the stakes.

Members, many of them grandparents, say they want to act so future generations have the same chances they had. Participants plan study circles, talks and cooperation with local activists such as Elokapina and Luontoliitto. They are considering a municipal-level sponsorship role similar to their parliamentary godparent scheme.

Organisers expect banners and conversations rather than disruptive tactics. One member joked about lying down in Hämeenkatu, but Mäkinen says she has promised the police they will not do that.