Professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones has released a sequel documentary, “Purple Mountains Live Free or Die,” emphasizing the need for bipartisan dialogue on climate change. Following his initial film, this new work showcases his reflections on growing up in New England and his interactions with youth and community leaders, advocating for inclusivity and engagement in environmental issues. Jones stresses the urgency of regaining trust in science and urges citizens to participate in the democratic process to combat climate change effectively, appealing for a unifying approach beyond political factions.
In the wake of increasing climate challenges and political strife, professional snowboarder Jeremy Jones is advocating for a united approach to tackle climate change through his latest documentary, “Purple Mountains Live Free or Die.” Launched two years after his original work, “Purple Mountains,” this sequel addresses the growing tensions surrounding climate discourse that have become inflected with political divides. Jones, who founded Protect Our Winters, feels a sense of urgency to revive discussions around climate change that transcend partisanship. This documentary serves to engage audiences by recounting his nostalgic journey to New England while highlighting the unique role of New Hampshire, known for its political balance, in his snowboarding formative years. With a runtime of over 30 minutes, “Purple Mountains Live Free or Die” has been touring various states, allowing viewers to reconnect with the essentials: the joy of snowboarding and the critical state of the environment. However, Jones has faced challenges in eliciting diverse viewpoints due to the polarized political landscape. Attempting to include voices from various political backgrounds proved difficult, as many potential interviewees withdrew from participation last minute. Despite these hurdles, Jones remains hopeful, particularly noting the enthusiasm of younger generations for outdoor activities. His interactions with the Abenaki Ski Team, for instance, highlighted the unifying power of shared experiences in nature, which transcends political affiliations. Additionally, he has collaborated with Mardi Fuller, an advocate for increasing inclusivity within outdoor spaces, who represents a fresh perspective in fostering unity and access in outdoor recreational activities. In striving for societal change, Jones is vocal about the necessity of scientific trust and informed action concerning climate issues. He implores audiences to recognize that climate change should not be politicized but approached as a collective responsibility, independent of partisan lines. “Science leads everything for us… But the science denial… has put us on this super dangerous path,” Jones asserted. He laments the adverse effects of allowing climate discussions to align with identity politics—issues such as gun control and abortion—stating that this diminishes the possibility for progressive dialogue and effective policymaking. Jones’s message calls for broader participation in the democratic process, urging citizens to recognize their power in affecting change. As historical voter turnout remains low, he emphasizes that stronger electoral engagement could shift the political landscape significantly, reducing the presence of climate deniers in office. “If just half of these people did (vote), there would not be room for climate deniers in office,” he concluded. Through his ongoing work and this latest documentary, Jeremy Jones continues to champion the cause of climate action as a universal priority, appealing to a sense of unity that transcends political differences.
The current political landscape has increasingly influenced the discussions surrounding climate change, making it a contentious topic rather than a universally recognized concern. Jeremy Jones’ prior documentary, “Purple Mountains,” aimed to highlight the changes he has witnessed in the mountains and the urgent need for discussions on climate. Following its success, Jones has responded with a sequel that underscores newfound challenges in addressing climate change amidst political stalemates. With an engaging focus on personal and collective stories, he aims to inspire meaningful conversations and collaboration across political lines, especially in a state like New Hampshire that exemplifies a range of political perspectives. Jones emphasizes the importance of scientific integrity in combating the climate crisis, calling for renewed solidarity against misinformation and disengagement.
Jeremy Jones’ latest documentary, “Purple Mountains Live Free or Die,” encapsulates a profound call for unity in addressing climate change, stripping away partisan labels. His experiences underscore both the challenges of engaging in dialogue within a polarized environment and the essential joys of shared outdoor experiences that can connect individuals across political divides. By advocating for increased electoral participation and scientific credibility, Jones seeks to inspire a collective response to the climate crisis that moves beyond politics towards actionable change.
Original Source: www.theinertia.com
