“OK, Boomer.” That’s a snarky phrase currently some use to mock 60-and-70-year-olds they consider to be cluelessly out-of-touch.

Recently, however, teenagers and 20-somethings have turned that snide sentiment into a positive challenge directed at doomsayers of all ages who claim nothing can be done to stop runaway global warming: “OK, Doomer,” these young climate activists respond. It’s their shorthand way of saying to do-nothing fatalists. Give up if you want, but please step aside while we organize and mobilize for climate sanity.

Our globes’s fast-warming, catastrophe-creating climate is more than just another issue – it has become a generational cause for young people. Indeed, 62 percent of young voters support totally phasing out fossil fuels, and they’re channeling their anger about official inaction toward both political parties. Such feisty grassroots groups as Gen-Z for Change, Zero Hour, Black Girl Environmentalist, and Our Children’s Trust are on the front lines – in the face of power, and on the move.

As in all progressive struggles – from civil rights to labor to environmental justice – progress comes from sticking with principle, building incrementally on local victories, and persevering against moneyed reactionaries. Already, one breakthrough by these young climate activists was made this year in deep-red, rural Montana. In a case filed by Our Children’s Trust, 16 children, ages 2-18, charged that a state law took away their right to challenge energy projects that increase global warming. Noting that Montana’s constitution establishes a right to “a clean and healthful environment,” state Judge Kathy Seeley ruled for the children… and for a clean, healthy climate future.

Progress is not made by spectators and cynics, but by activists. And those who say that activism can’t produce change should not interrupt those who’re doing it.

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