(Click here to read the full transcript of Gore’s presentation, entitlted “A Generational Challenge to Repower America”)

In a speech inspired by historic initiatives put forward by some of our country’s greatest leaders, Nobel Laureate and former Vice President Al Gore today issued a challenge to the United States of America: remove our dependence on oil and foreign powers by creating all of our own electricity with renewable and carbon-free energy in ten years’ time.

The essence of his speech was this: if you unravel all of the problems our country is facing today (the economy, steadily rising fuel costs, rising unemployment, etc…) the core of the problem is this: a stubborn reliance on carbon-based fuels which can only be provided by the middle east, and which we can only continue to purchase with the aid of foreign powers such as China.

Essentially, he has thrown down the gauntlet: we need people to join in this cause, and those who do not need to step aside. Our role in the world, our health as a nation, and the health of our planet depends on it.

The beauty of Al Gore stepping out of mainstream politics is this: he can now challenge the system without fear of systematic retribution. Which is what this country needs more than anything.

Being there for the speech was truly inspiring…it always feels good to find out you’re not the only person having these feelings of frustration and anxiety over the state we are in. Its always nice to know other people….large numbers of people… are just as concerned as you are. Because that is the direction in which hope lies.

Once they get video of Gore’s challenge to America, I will link to it or post it here. You should definately check it- its well worth the watching.

Use the link above to read the full transcript of Gore’s presentation, or go here to read the AP story.

Former VP Al Gore will be making a presentation on resetting how we think about energy and climate. The event is being presented by the We Campaign, a nonprofit, nonpartisan program of the The Alliance for Climate Protection.

Why am I writing about this? Well, in addition to having an interest in protecting the environment and reducing global climate change, I also happen to have a ticket to attend this event…and will be doing so in about an hour.

If you are at all concerned about the environment and Global Warming, I urge you tro sign-up for the We Campaign here. There are a lot of great nonprofits out there (and I should know, I work for one of the best) but I really think this is one of the most important ones right now. They offer a lot of ideas on things you can do to make a difference, and they invite you to write your governor, congressperson, etc… regarding certain key events and topics.