SHARING OUR GRATITUDE
Dear Green Guardian,
There’s something I’ve been reflecting on recently: the many different forms that courage can take. Courage has always been at the heart of Greenpeace’s work. For decades, we’ve associated it with putting our bodies on the line — scaling smokestacks, blocking pipelines, or sailing into dangerous waters — to protect people and the planet. While that still remains true today, the way we think about courage is evolving.
Now, courage is not only about physical risk, it’s about the positions we take and the words we speak. It takes bravery to stand for justice in the face of growing threats and opposition. Speaking up for Palestine, for racial justice, for migrant and Indigenous rights while continuing to fight for the environment carries real risks for organizations and individuals alike. Yet, it is precisely this courage that defines Greenpeace and our supporters.
Not everyone has agreed with the stances we’ve taken, but those like yourself who have stayed steadfast in your support or have newly joined us — thank you. Your generosity strengthens our vision and emboldens us to move forward together.
We know that protecting a forest, halting a pipeline, or saving a species means little if the wider systems of exploitation remain intact. To truly protect the planet, we must confront and change the larger systems that drive injustice and destruction. This is hard, risky work. Challenging entrenched power always is. But activism is inherently optimistic — it believes that a better future is possible. It is also an exercise in helping others — and standing up to bullies.
This year you joined us in practicing courageous activism.
You have had our backs as we stood in solidarity with our colleagues at Greenpeace US and Greenpeace International who are being bullied with legal attacks by big oil; you raised your voice until global governments could no longer ignore our demands to protect the oceans, and ratified the Global Ocean Treaty; and you did not shy away when we called for an arms embargo and an end to the genocide in Palestine.
Throughout all of these difficult times, we have drawn hope from you, as you continue to show up for people and the planet. It’s because of this collective courage and solidarity that we are stronger than ever, and we will keep standing for what’s right — even through the toughest times.
With gratitude,
CHRISTY FERGUSON Executive Director, Greenpeace Canada
A SPECIAL GIFT FOR YOU
We’re so grateful to have you as a valued member of our Green Guardians community — a group of our most committed and generous supporters. Thank you for everything you do to protect the planet. As a token of our appreciation, we would like to offer you a complimentary 2026 Greenpeace wall calendar (10.5” x 8.5”)! If you would like to receive one, please email us at supporter.ca@greenpeace.org or give us a call at 1-800-320-7183 (toll-free). Please note that supplies are limited, and requests will be fulfilled on a first come, first serve basis.
With appreciation,
Sana Fazal Supporter Care Officer
Your Overwhelming Response ENERGY TRANSFER CASE:
Kristin Casper General Counsel, Greenpeace International
There’s no doubt about it: the giant oil pipeline company, Energy Transfer, is trying to silence dissent and intimidate people from protecting the planet and each other. Earlier this year, a North Dakota jury found Greenpeace entities in the US and Greenpeace International liable in Energy Transfer’s Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation case, and awarded Energy Transfer over USD$660 million in damages for defamation and other claims related to the 2016 Dakota Access Pipeline protests. It’s a legal attack that has filled many of us with outrage and resolve to continue fighting the case on appeal.
But beyond this outrageous bullying, something much more important stood out: how the global Greenpeace community — including people like you — responded. Whether it was through generous donations, signing petitions, sending messages of solidarity, or raising your voices in defense of free expression and the right to protest: you showed you cared.
It’s moments like these that demonstrate the strength of the global Greenpeace network as
a movement, powered by thousands of caring, determined people across Canada and around the world.
Your support means that while Greenpeace entities in the US and Greenpeace International may face years of legal challenges, they won’t be facing them alone. Every action you took reminded all of us that people power is stronger than corporate power. And as someone working closely on the Energy Transfer case for Greenpeace International, I want you to know how deeply grateful we are for your show of solidarity.
Through your solidarity and generosity, you reminded us that when the global movement is targeted, people will come together in a show of strength. It’s because of supporters like you that the Greenpeace organizations facing the jury verdict are ready to appeal and continue to fight for the protection of free speech.
Thank you for believing in the work, and for showing that collective courage can overcome even the most powerful attempts to suppress it. The road ahead is a long one, but with you, I know the movement can continue building the just, green future we all deserve.
© Jinni J / Greenpeace. Allies from all over the US came to Dallas to show solidarity with Greenpeace at the Free Speech Rally during the We Will Not Be Silenced Week of Action, in February 2025.
Pushing Greenpeace Canada Forward THREE PATHS, ONE PURPOSE:
In 2025, Greenpeace Canada welcomed three new staff members to our program leadership team, each bringing passion, determination, and fresh energy to strengthen our campaigns.
Jennifer Brown Head of Communications
For Jennifer Brown, Greenpeace Canada’s new Head of Communications, her path to activism was paved by two influential women: her grandmother and mother. She fondly recalls her “very proper” Granny putting her body on the line to prevent the chopping down of mature trees in her neighbourhood, and proudly witnessing her mother campaign for women’s rights.
So, with activism in her veins and a love for the environment, it was no surprise that Jennifer’s career path led her to the climate movement: “The way I feel when I am in nature — a sense of wonderment, humbled, connected, my best self — combined with my belief that it’s our shared responsibility to care for people and planet — are my main drivers.” And like us, Jennifer sees Greenpeace as “an organization doing courageous work at the intersection of climate and social justice.”
Her message to supporters: “Your voice matters… Together, we are making a difference.”
Sheila Sampath Co-Head of Programs
“My path here has been anything but linear,” says Sheila Sampath, Greenpeace Canada’s new Co-Head of Programs. From frontline crisis work to leading a feminist magazine and founding a social justice design studio, her journey has
always centered around liberation, decolonization, and justice.
Sheila sees environmental justice as deeply personal and intergenerational: “The health of the planet is the foundation on which all struggles for justice rest.” And she admires Greenpeace’s courage and creativity, adding, “What excites me here is how we’re integrating justice, equity, diversity, inclusion, and safety into environmental work.”
Her message to supporters: “Keep dreaming, keep demanding. Together, we can create a future worth fighting for.”
Sarah Wilbore Director of Programs & Communications
“After graduating, I started my career working for the very corporations I now campaign against,” says Sarah Wilbore, Greenpeace Canada’s new Director of Programs & Communications. Her early eye-opening experience with tar sands operations set her on a path to activism.
You might actually recognize Sarah’s name, because she worked with Greenpeace Canada from 2012-2018. After returning this summer, she says, “It feels right to be back and see so many new faces. I’m excited for the work ahead of us.”
Her message to supporters is heartfelt: “None of the work we do is possible without you. I’m so grateful you’re here.”
Together, Jennifer, Sheila, and Sarah bring unique experiences and perspectives, fierce dedication, and a shared belief in the power of community and action to the table. We’re excited for what lies ahead!
The UN Global Ocean Treaty is Ratified! A HISTORIC WIN:
In September, 2025, after more than two decades of tireless campaigning — petitions, marches, scientific reports, meetings with governments, and creative actions at sea — we reached a milestone that once felt almost impossible. The United Nations Global Ocean Treaty will finally enter into force!
Over sixty governments have now signed the Treaty into law, giving the world a once-in-ageneration opportunity to protect the oceans. And this happened because of you!
Together, more than a million people around the world called on governments to act. You added your voice, and with it, the momentum that turned this campaign into history.
The Treaty is more than just words on paper. It’s a powerful tool that can facilitate the creation of a network of ocean sanctuaries — places where destructive human activities like overfishing, mining, and drilling are kept out so marine life can recover. Scientists tell us that protecting at least 30% of the ocean by 2030 is critical if we want marine ecosystems to bounce back. Now, with this Treaty entering into force, that vision can become a reality.
This victory is also another incredible example of something bigger: the fact that people power works. In a world often divided, we’ve shown that collaboration across borders, movements, and communities can win meaningful change. Together with Indigenous Peoples and local communities, scientists and students, activists and artists, we built a movement that governments couldn’t ignore, and we convinced them to put the planet first!
Of course, our work isn’t done yet. The Treaty gives us the framework, but now we need to push governments to use it. We need them to design strong, science-based sanctuaries that truly protect life in international waters, which are unregulated and highly exploited. And we’ll need to keep the pressure on Canada and other governments to stand up for the future of biodiversity in the face of corporations who see the oceans only as a resource to exploit.
As we continue this work, we’ll do so with hope and renewed determination. Because this moment is proof that we can shape the future we want and urgently need. Ocean sanctuaries are no longer a dream — they’re within reach.
Thank you for helping us deliver this historic win for people and the planet.
Climbing to New Heights MEET OUR VOLUNTEERS:
For Toronto-based Greenpeace Canada volunteers D.J. Dillon and María Sánchez Osuna, activism is about courage, creativity, and community. Which is perfect, because both recently returned from an Greenpeace International-led climbing training in Mexico — an experience that left them inspired, energized, and deeply connected to a global movement for change.
D.J. first joined Greenpeace Canada as a volunteer in 2019, drawn by what he describes as the organization’s “independent spirit and bold, creative actions.” Since then, he’s contributed to Greenpeace Canada mural paintings, tabled at farmers markets, and even participated in large-scale coordinated actions.
But it was his experience of the Greenpeace climbing training in Mexico that gave him a chance to push himself beyond his comfort zone. “I had very little experience going in,” he recalls, “but within a day I was on the ropes scaling the side of a building. It was super fun!”
The technical lessons — from rope systems and rescues to banner drops — were invaluable, but what stood out most was the sense of solidarity and community. “On any given day I was learning from different people or part of a different group working together.” And throughout the week, connections were made with other Greenpeace volunteers from around the world.
D.J’s message to supporters: “Thank you so much for your support, which allows Greenpeace to make a difference in this world. The trip to Mexico was an amazing experience which strengthened not only individual volunteer skills but the bonds between the global Greenpeace team as well. These opportunities could not be made without you!”
For María, Greenpeace has been a lifelong inspiration. “As a kid, I used to watch Greenpeace actions on the news and thought those were the bravest people in the world,” she says. After trying to start green initiatives on her own, she realized change can be difficult to spark in isolation: “I volunteer to make sure my efforts can be part of a bigger initiative, where the strength comes from the collective.” Since joining the Toronto Local Group in 2023, she has embraced a wide range of activities — from banner building and projection actions, to marching for Palestine and trans rights.
The training in Mexico gave her both technical skills and a renewed sense of purpose. “It was inspiring to meet people living fully in line with their values,” María reflects. Though she knows climbing actions require further practice, she is eager to train more and contribute wherever she can.
María’s message to supporters: “Thank you for being part of the change. I can’t donate money, so I donate my time. But without your support we wouldn’t be here. Painting, fabric for banners, tools, office space, printing, renting vans to move equipment, keeping volunteers fed during long actions… You make all of that possible!”
© Greenpeace. Greenpeace volunteers from around the world gathered in a Mexico for a GPI-led climbing training, in 2025.
© María Sánchez Osuna
© D.J. Dillon
A GENEROUS LEGACY GIFT
Powers GCEF Forward
Greenpeace Canada is deeply grateful for the support of the Greenpeace Canada Education Fund (GCEF) and the generous donors, researchers, partners, and board members who make its work possible.
In 2025, one donor in particular left an extremely generous legacy gift to GCEF: the late Sandra Elisabeth Brittany. We are profoundly honoured by her generosity and committed to carrying her values forward through environmental research and education.
Sandra’s niece, Cathy Mingo, shared the lasting impact her aunt had on those who knew her well.
My Aunt Sandy was really the best kind of person, the best aunt anyone could ask for. When my siblings and I were young, she would teach us how to dye things with wildflowers, how to identify plants and wildlife, and help us to understand why living in harmony with the natural world was so important.
Sandy was already doing environmental conservation “best practices” before the idea had caught on with others. She always recycled, used reusable jute bags for shopping, never used chemicals in her house or garden, and had rainwater harvesting systems wherever she lived. She was particularly protective of the trees, plants and animals on her properties. She taught my brother, sister, and me about respecting the planet when we were little, and now, all these years later, I can not look at a tree without really “seeing” it and all it does for us.
She was a quiet yet passionate supporter of Greenpeace and other charities and organizations that championed environmentalism, opposed animal cruelty, and supported those who practised and taught sustainable practices. My aunt was truly an amazing woman: a committed environmentalist who positively impacted those who knew her, and has left a “legacy” of like-minded people. She never did things for public attention or approval, but rather because they were simply the right thing to do.
Sandra’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference one person can make. We are extremely grateful for Sandra’s generosity and to all who supported GCEF in 2025.
To learn more about GCEF’s work please visit gcef.ca. You can also reach out to Jackie Gallagher, Director of Greenpeace Canada Education Fund, at: jackie.gallagher@gcef.ca
Thank you for acting with us as we continue to work towards a healthier, more sustainable future. All donations made to GCEF are eligible for a tax receipt and directly support our ongoing environmental efforts.
© Mitja Kobal / Greenpeace
BECAUSE OF YOU
Caring people, committed to protecting the planet and one another, have always been at the heart of Greenpeace’s work. Every donation, every step at a march, every name added to a petition adds up. Each act of courage moving us closer to a greener, more just world for all.
This work is only possible because of you. And you are not alone. As a Green Guardian, you are part of a generous, global community — people from every walk of life who believe in change and take action to make it a reality. Your support powers Greenpeace Canada’s campaigns here at home and strengthens efforts across the world, making you an essential part of a truly international movement.
We know the pressures of today’s world, and we understand that time and resources are precious. That’s why we are profoundly grateful to you for choosing to invest in Greenpeace, in our campaigns, and in the future of the planet we share.
After nearly a decade of inspiring students and shaping the future of Greenpeace Canada’s Greenspeakers program, we say goodbye and thank you to one of our most dedicated volunteers, Michael Suksi.
Since 2015, Michael has been at the heart of Greenpeace Canada’s Greenspeakers program, inspiring countless students across the GTA and beyond with his knowledge, kindness, and passion for the planet.
As leader of the Toronto/GTA Greenspeakers group for seven years, Michael guided the team with warmth and vision, helping it grow and thrive. Under his leadership, thousands of students — from Grade 1 through 12 — learned about climate change, oceans, biodiversity, plastic pollution, and more. Teachers welcomed him back year after year, knowing his presentations made a lasting impact.
Michael’s belief in the power of young people to shape a better future has been a guiding light for all of us. We are grateful for his dedication and will carry his words forward: “Our collective voices and actions are powerful.”
Thank you, Michael!
THANK YOU FOR BEING A GREEN GUARDIAN
Green Guardians are an international community of Greenpeace supporters who have gone above and beyond to ensure the planet is protected.
Thank you for being one of them! We couldn’t do it without you.
greenpeace.ca
Michael Suksi Greenspeaker