Celebrating the Earth through activism

Every year, on April 22, American citizens and organizations rally together and protest to raise awareness of environmental issues. It is increasingly important to address issues, such as climate change and pollution, that are already affecting us and will only worsen in the future if we do nothing to alleviate them.

Senator, later Governor, Gaylord Nelson of Wisconsin (1916–2005) had this in mind when he introduced the idea of a nationwide teach-in on April 22, 1970, for environmental issues. John McConnell’s idea of having an “Earth Day” celebrated inspired the senator. “‘The objective was to get a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment so large that it would shake the political establishment out of its lethargy,” Senator Nelson said,”‘and, finally, force this issue permanently onto the national political agenda.’” (https://bit.ly/3oq3Fcq)

Nelson’s idea was an overall success in the United States and became a recurring event on April 22. On Earth Day’s 20th anniversary, National Coordinator Dennis Hayes introduced Earth Day to about 150 countries. Modern Earth Day is not limited to one day anymore; in some places, Earth Day is an entire week dedicated to environmentalism.

However, individuals can also honor Earth Day. Here is what you can do to join the efforts to save the planet:

● Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

● Grow some plants at home

● Join the Armijo Garden Club

● Walk or bike to school

● Pick up trash at a local park

● Buy produce from your local farmer’s market