Who Are We?
We are living through a global climate emergency. As part of an international movement, Red Rebels Toronto is a unique form of street theatre, bringing attention to the urgent need for action.
“Climate change and its impact on people, animals and our environment is simply devastating. When I put on the Red Rebel robe, makeup and head piece, I am able to embody my grief.”
“The focus is on the emotional impact of climate collapse. Red Rebels offer a powerful reminder, with care and compassion.”
Many of us feel unable to speak, or when we do our words are not heard. Red Rebels speak without words.
“In the Red Rebels, our costumes, faces, and body language speak for themselves. It’s a relief to express emotions without having to use words.”
“Donning the red robe, moving in unison, I found a way to channel my climate grief into silent protest - and purpose.”
Through our silent gestures and evocative tableaux, we invite emotional response to the climate crisis, igniting powerful inner forces for collective change.
- SEE our videos - Youtube link below.
- MOST PHOTOS BY MARTIN REIS https://www.instagram.com/mister._.rain/?hl=en
Red Rebels are dedicated to supporting individuals, groups and organizations fighting to save humanity and all of life from extinction. The red we wear symbolizes the blood we share with other species. We embody a message of love, inclusivity and non-violence.
“I’ve been involved with environmental issues for a long time. We vote and that doesn’t help. We go out on the streets. What else can we do? So, to me, it was like, well maybe this will help. And also, you know, I’m a ham, so doing it sounded like fun. Also, we look fabulous!”
Through slow, synchronized movement, we create a vivid, emotional visual that resonates with those who witness it.
“I was attracted by the theatricality. Signing petitions feels like you are banging your head against the wall. Red Rebels are something new, something different.”
Our aim is to stand in solidarity with our community, confronting the destruction of our planet with our collective action. Our gestures express both grief and love—for future generations, for all living beings.
“Being a Red Rebel gives me a sense of deeper connection with others, a sense of meaning and purpose.”
“We show up in this time of crisis to ask: Who are we becoming? What is unfolding around us? And how can we respond with care and courage?”
Red Rebels Toronto- AUGUST 2025
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WHAT ABOUT YOU
Who are the people we interact with, people who come and engage with us at actions? People like you!
"People often stop for a moment and look back. And then, with a shared gasp I can see the grief in eyes. I have heard from afar 'I love the Red Rebels.' "
"I see people registering the problem. They may look away, they may retreat into denial, but some discomfort is a good thing as it can lead to more questioning, more thinking and hopefully more action."
"Faces lit up with curiousity, awe, and emotion. Questions follow: 'Who are you? What does this mean?"
"We are mesmerizing…evidenced by all the photos taken. And we are opening hearts. One young woman, looking on with tears flowing, said 'I feel so moved'."
"A six-year-old boy asked us, 'are you fire'?
A Francophone couple said: "Il faut continuer ce bon travail. Courage. Ayez le courage de continuer."
"Our presence invites people to feel, reflect, and to care. That’s where action begins."
WHY WE DO THIS
Red Rebels Toronto is driven by deep love for Earth and its children.
“What drew me to join was the possibility to extend the invitation to onlookers to feel along with me, rather than deny their grief, fear and outrage about the climate crises.”
Like a Greek Chorus, we move as one, expressing what others cannot—grief, fear, longing, and hope. We offer solidarity, comfort, and love.
“As Joanna Macy puts it, our hearts sing both a requiem for the loss of an irreplaceable planet and also a song of joy and rebirth for what we can create together in a new culture of care.”
This is not just performance—it’s personal. Our bodies carry fossil fuel carbon, airborne toxins, and microplastics. We are on the front lines of pollution.
“Being immersed in this art form has been grounding during this time of sheer yet contained terror.”
HOW WE OPERATE
Red Rebels Toronto creates an atmosphere of inclusiveness and respect, valuing diverse views and fostering open, compassionate communication. Our members work cooperatively, actively listen, and take on tasks that support the group’s actions. We are an affinity group.
"I spend most of my days and nights working on climate issues. Without the Red Rebels I could not do it. Getting together, talking, laughing, sharing, having our issues and solving our problems sustains me. Red Rebels are my ballast."
"I love being with the group. I keep learning. I feel very invested."
During performances, we are accompanied by Vanguards, dressed in black, who distribute flyers, carry signs, and answer questions on our behalf.
"Here is a way to get involved and help alleviate my guilt about the climate crisis."
"We are connecting with people on an emotional level that’s deeper than normally experienced at a traditional protest."
We carefully select rallies, protests, and events by group consensus, ensuring our participation is meaningful. Red Rebels Toronto operates within the policies of each venue, maintaining a strictly non-violent and non-confrontational approach. a strong sense of community by providing opportunities for social connection and personal growth.