In 2014, Marshallese poet Kathy Jetnil-Kijiner spoke on behalf of civil society during the opening ceremony of the United Nations Climate Leaders Summit in New York City using footage of climate action from around the world. Kathy performed a new poem entitled “Dear Matafele Peinem,” written to her daughter. The poem received a standing ovation. Kathy is also a teacher, journalist and founder of the environmental NGO, Jo-jikum. Photo credit: the United Nations
