MADISON, Wis. (WKOW) — People gathered at the Capitol steps after marching up State Street, led by groups like 350 Wisconsin, Elevate and the Sierra Club. Organizers are calling for clean energy jobs, environmental justice and stronger climate action in Wisconsin.

Marchers came for speeches, art and music performances, with a focus on holding leaders accountable and pushing for meaningful climate action. The event was part of Climate Week, connecting Madison to a broader national push for renewable energy.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul addressed the crowd about the state’s future and the importance of policy choices made now.

“Supporting investments in clean technology, including electric vehicle infrastructure here in Wisconsin, means not only making progress in protecting clean air, but also investing in a way that’s going to help create jobs here in Wisconsin,” said Kaul.

Former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes also spoke about Wisconsin’s opportunities.

“We need to tap into our potential with solar, we need to tap into our potential with wind, we need to tap into our potential with geothermal. These are all possibilities where Wisconsin can be a leader,” said Barnes.

Kaul emphasized the urgency of climate action.

“The longer that we wait to take an action to combat climate change, the worse this problem runs,” said Kaul.

Many attendees expressed their desire for Wisconsin to take the lead on climate action. They want decisions that support jobs, communities and the environment.

Protesters say they refuse to let Wisconsin continue without a plan. They demand state leaders move from talk to solutions.