As the theater world celebrated a landmark night at the 2025 Tony Awards, one unexpected voice joined the chorus of praise: climate and social justice activist Greta Thunberg. Known globally for her powerful advocacy on the environment and youth empowerment, Thunberg took to social media to commend Cole Escola’s win and the broader message of inclusion and courage radiating from Broadway’s biggest night. In a post shared with her 10 million+ followers, Thunberg wrote: “Congratulations @ColeEscola and the cast of Oh, Mary! — proof that art can challenge norms, bring laughter, and make people think. Representation matters, and visibility changes lives. This is what progress looks like.”

The Swedish activist, who has long championed intersectionality in climate justice, has spoken before about how environmental and social issues are inextricably linked. Her support for Escola and the queer community's growing visibility in mainstream media follows her broader advocacy for marginalized voices in global movements. Escola, an out nonbinary actor and playwright, made history this year by winning Best Actor in a Play for Oh, Mary!, an absurdist comedy about Mary Todd Lincoln that they wrote and starred in. The play, originally an off-Broadway sleeper hit, quickly gained acclaim for its sharp wit, emotional depth, and fearless queering of historical narrative. Thunberg’s acknowledgement of the show recognizes not just the artistic achievement, but also the cultural importance of giving platforms to previously sidelined voices.

In recent speeches, Thunberg has stressed the importance of diverse storytelling in shaping public consciousness. “The stories we elevate define what we value,” she said at the 2024 European Youth Summit. “Climate justice includes racial justice, gender equality, LGBTQ+ rights—it’s all connected.” Her reaction to the Tonys was an extension of that philosophy: a belief that the stage, like any public platform, should reflect and challenge the world we live in. Thunberg’s response also emphasized the significance of positive representation for queer youth. Echoing Escola’s now-viral message to LGBTQ+ theater kids—“You’re right. Everyone else is wrong.”—Thunberg added in a follow-up post: “To all the queer kids watching, know that there is space for your voice. Whether on stage, in the streets, or in the climate movement—we need your perspective.”

Her support sparked a wave of engagement from fans and activists alike, many commenting on the power of intersectional solidarity. One follower wrote, “This is what allyship looks like—thank you, Greta.” Another added, “From the climate marches to Broadway, the revolution is diverse, and it’s beautiful.” At just 22, Greta Thunberg continues to demonstrate a uniquely powerful combination of conviction and compassion. By highlighting moments of cultural progress—like Cole Escola’s historic Tony win—she reinforces the idea that movements for justice don’t exist in isolation. Whether through policy, protest, or performance, change comes when bold voices are amplified and celebrated.