HELENA — Wednesday, April 22, marks 50 years since the first celebration of Earth Day. In Helena, events are still being held to commemorate the anniversary, despite social distancing requirements.
Diana Hammer, a member of Helena’s Citizen Conservation Board, said they had planned much larger activities for the holiday, but the COVID-19 emergency forced them to switch to virtual or home-based events.
Organizers are now encouraging people to make Earth Day-themed art to put in their windows, and to take an online Earth Day Pledge – committing to steps to save energy, reduce waste and pursue other environmental goals.
“We’re thinking that today kicks off a day, a month, a year of action on climate change and other environmental issues, because we all benefit from clean air, clean water and clean places to play and recreate,” said Hammer.
Also, at 8:04 p.m. Wednesday, several organizations are asking people to take part in a “Community Chorus.” Inspired by the daily “Howls for Helena” in support of health care workers, they are encouraging people to sing “This Land Is Your Land” along with Montana artist Jason DeShaw.
You can find a full list of activities at helenaearthday.org.
Organizers say they hope this year’s Earth Day will only be a start in getting people to think about what they can do to support the environment.
“Think of one, two or 20 things they could do – we can each do,” Hammer said. “Each little bit helps to make our community more sustainable and make our planet healthier for this 50th celebration of Earth Day.”
