Earth Day: A Story of Unity

Earth Day: A Story of Unity

April 22nd of this year marks the 51st annual Earth Day celebration since its inception in 1970. The origin tale of this holiday is one of bipartisan unity, a story of hope and change, between the unlikely trio of a Democratic Senator, Republican Congressman, and young activist. If we go back in time to the 1960’s, we see many themes that mirror events today: social and political unrest, protests, and climate concerns. We set the stage early in the decade, when it was commonplace for factories and institutions to dispose of toxic waste in our forests, oceans, and rivers with little to no regulation. People began to recognize some of the environmental impacts of pollution when the book Silent Spring was released in 1962, becoming a bestseller and detailing the dangerous ramifications of pesticides on the environment. Then, in 1969, two major events happened to further awaken the public to environmental concerns: The Cuyahoga River in Cleveland caught fire from toxic waste disposal, and three million gallons of oil were spilled off the coast of Santa Barbara, California, leaving a six mile-long path of destruction.

It was at this time that democratic Senator Gaylord Nelson, an elected official from Wisconsin, felt the time was right to implement political change in the arena of environmental conservation. More and more people were waking up to the devastating effects of pollution on the environment and were anxious to make a change. Nelson was inspired by the potency of the student anti-war movement and wanted to harness this type of passion for environmental conservation. Nelson joined with Pete McClosky, a Republican Congressman for California and Denis Hayes, an environmental activist and Harvard University student. It was Nelson’s belief that the best way to elicit political change was through bipartisan, grassroots activism on a scale so grand that citizens and officials alike would be forced to take notice. On April 22, 1970, Earth Day demonstrations took place all over the country. It was so large that blocks of major cities shut down for speeches given by politicians, celebrities, and activists. An astounding ten percent of the United States population, 20 million people, took part in celebrating the very first Earth Day. This staggering outcome was the result of the founders’ concerted efforts to involve people of all faiths, backgrounds, political beliefs, and social classes. The unification of Earth Day’s participants for the cause of conservation led to powerful changes in laws and regulations, including the establishment of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, the Endangered Species Act, and the Clean Water Act.

Today, Earth Day is a global celebration with more than one billion people taking part worldwide. Activities may include a two day celebration in a park in Tokyo or a music circle and March for Science in Copenhagen. On Earth day, you may find drum circles, sustainability training, self-regenerating water techniques for your home, or information on how to advocate to your representative for change. One thing you can be sure of, human passion for conserving and protecting our planet is alive and well, and growing. Compassion, unity, and love for our beautiful Earth unifies us across borders, oceans, and credences. It is a time for us to celebrate the powerful gift of nature and this beautiful planet we call home. And while the historical aspect of Earth Day is notable, it’s also a wonderful day to reflect on our own place in it. 

As this particular Earth Day arrives I challenge you to consider the parts of our amazing planet that you find the most meaningful. Perhaps it\’s the might of the elements to power our electricity or the relaxing sound of the ocean. You might find peace in gardening your front yard or feeding the birds. Whether it’s big or small, take a moment to experience appreciation for it. This great planet sustains us every day through the air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat. By tuning into our particular gratitude, we can experience a respite from the business of our daily lives, and perhaps even make a plan to expand on that gratitude by planning a hike, a trip to the beach, or planting something new. It’s also a wonderful reason to think of a way to give back, such as attending a conservation event to learn more about sustainability, or donating some of your used items. These things not only benefit the planet, but also benefit our own sense of well-being by tuning into feelings of compassion and service.

Julie Russell

Mental Health Intern