What kinds of ecological connections inspire you? Some people seek refuge from cities in remote, rural places, while others flourish when they connect to nature alongside other people. Earth Day is a celebration that affirms our ties to plant and animal communities, but also to one another. By keeping social and environmental justice a central part of Earth Day activities, we can cultivate deep caring for both people and planet – each equal ingredients for the vibrant, healthy community that we all need. Read on and participate in these events, part of Berkeley Earth Days, that focus on social and environmental justice.
Wednesday, 4/10/13: Film & Discussion: “The Island President”
Maldives President Mohamed Nasheed is confronting a problem greater than any world leader has ever faced: the literal survival of his country and everyone in it. This free screening of “The Island President” documentary film will be followed by a panel discussion to discuss climate change and how to get involved locally.
Tuesday, 4/16/13: The State of Fracking in California: A Berkeley Earth Days Panel
Though touted by the fossil fuel industry as the next best thing in energy production, hydraulic fracturing — fracking — poses tremendous risks to human health and natural life. Join us for a panel discussion with leaders in the thick of this energy battle. We’ll hear about what fracking means in California and beyond, and what you can do to stop it.
Thursday, 4/18/13: Growing Our Future: Local To Global Food Sovereignty Film and Discussion
In honor of Cesar Chavez’s commitment to community empowerment and self determination, we are hosting a night of community education and exploration around the topic of food sovereignty–the right of peoples to define their own food and agriculture systems. We invite you to enjoy a night of film, food, and presentations about inspiring examples of community based food production, ranging from urban farmers in LA to sustainable agriculture in Nicaragua.
As conveners of the 2013 Berkeley Earth Days celebration, we chose the theme “Educate • Inspire • Act.” This theme draws on the original Earth Day celebration in 1970, when 20 million Americans participated in a nationwide day of learning and actions. This year, Berkeley Earth Days will be accessible to a wide range of people by having different events on different days and locations across the city. We are excited by the range and depth of events offered, including events highlighted here that focus on social and environmental justice. For the full lineup of events, go to www.berkeleyearthdays.org
