In a symbolic photo opportunity designed to remind the public of its duty to protect the health of future generations, Secretary of State John Kerry brought his young granddaughter with him to the United Nations as he signed an international commitment to curb the pace of global warming.
Over 150 nations are expected to sign the agreement today, a truly historic feat based on a previous accord set in Paris that aims to limit the Earth’s temperature to 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels.
Kerry hoisted his granddaugther onto his lap in front of a large assembly gathered for the signing ceremony, kissing her on the cheek after adding his signature on behalf of the United States. Isabelle Dobbs-Higginson, 2, is the only child of Kerry’s eldest daughter, Alexandra Kerry, and her husband, Julian Dobbs-Higginson.