Just Stop Oil Activists Deface Darwin's Grave

Two activists from the climate group Just Stop Oil defaced Charles Darwin's grave at Westminster Abbey, spray painting '1.5 is dead' in orange chalk. This act occurred shortly after reports indicated that global temperatures had surpassed the safe threshold of 1.5 degrees Celsius for the first time in 2024, marking a significant environmental concern. The activists, Alyson Lee, 66, and Di Bligh, 77, expressed their belief that Darwin would be upset about the current climate crisis, emphasizing the ongoing sixth mass extinction. They were arrested on suspicion of causing criminal damage, and Westminster Abbey confirmed that immediate measures would be taken to clean the memorial with no anticipated permanent damage. Both women have a history of participation in environmental protests, highlighting a pattern of disruptive activism aimed at raising awareness about climate action. Their actions drew attention to the urgent need for governmental response to climate change, as underscored by their statements during the incident.