In a school-wide celebration of Earth Day, students at the Collegiate School in Richmond, VA heard speakers, attended workshops, and participated in projects to learn about environmental issues-rather than sitting in class- on April 21. The event was organized by Holly Smith, school Art Teacher and Lindy Williams, Associate Head of School- both inspired by sustainability and firm believers that through education and student involvement, problems like global warming can be solved.
Mike Tidwell, Executive Director of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, addressed the High School on why global warming is the moral, economic, and envronmental issus we all must work together to solve. Following his address, Hilary Lufkin, Virginia Campus Organizer of the Chesapeake Climate Action Network, addressed the Middle School on the history of Earth Day, and how Earth Day 2009 is so important in solving the climate crisis.
In the afternoon students attended different workshops, almost 30 to choose from, with topics ranging from sustainable food to transportation- electricity generation to organizing 101- presented by local environmental organizations.
I spoke with students on civics. Civic engagement is the largest way to have an impact on the issues- and with the Waxman/Markey bill being heard in congress this Earth Day, there is no better time to get involved by calling your representatives, writing letters, and making sure your voice is heard. Energy Action has a fantastic physical presence at the hearings, and around Virginia students are playing a role as well- even from afar.
Students learned about why grassroots organizing is so important and how they can be involved in sending messages to their elected officials this Earht Day, but we didn’t stop there…we took action! We wrote more than 20 letters, took photos for the photo petition, and some students even spoke with Eric Cantor’s office.
This Earth Day, remember that history is in the making, and there is nothing more powerful than stepping up and getting involved!
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