It’s important to acknowledge the challenges we face as a planet, and the responsibility that falls upon all of us to address them. And when the World Economic Forum convened in 2013, leaders from all corners of the globe came together in Switzerland. The air was electrifying as the best and the brightest minds gathered to discuss the pressing affairs. Among the crowd was a true icon of the big city, Derek Jeter, the then captain of the New York Yankees. 

Having witnessed the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy in his own backyard, Jeter was awfully aware of the gravity of addressing climate change. Although not known for his forays into the world of politics. The former captain spoke to a reporter at the forum, expressing his hope that global leaders would take action against climate change. 

Derek Jeter in a conversation about climate change 

In Davos, Switzerland, during the World Economic Forum,in January 2013,  amongst the world leaders stood Derek Jeter. He was there on behalf of PepsiCo, but it wasn’t long before he found himself engaged in a conversation about the pressing global issue. Jeter spoke to a reporter from the Columbus Dispatch. Here’s what he said, “It’s just something that’s gotten so much attention.”

“Regardless of how you feel about it. It’s something that needs to be addressed because we’re seeing more and more natural disasters each year, it seems like. Something has to be causing it.”

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Despite him making this comment nearly a decade ago, his words still carry a lot of weight. Seeing as how he is reluctant about delving into politics, his candid remark made it clear that this is still an issue that affects us all. 

What about his other political views at the forum? 

Derek Jeter spoke candidly about the urgent need to address climate change. However, he was careful not to overstep when it came to political issues. He declined to comment on topics such as gun control, federal debt, or women in combat. He acknowledged that there were others better suited to the task. “I know my place,” he said.

Also, as he mingled with the world’s change-makers, the baseball phenom was keenly aware of the honor and privilege of attending the forum. “It’s an honor to attend this forum,” Jeter said. He also spoke about his excitement at the opportunity he “jumped at” to be a part of. He was also grateful to Gatorade (PepsiCo) for making it possible.

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