Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson was concerned about the environment as early as the 1960s.  He thought a national conservation tour would thrust the environment into national spotlight.  He approached President Kennedy who went on a five-day tour.  The tour didn’t work like Senator Nelson thought, but at least it was a start.

Senator continued to speak across the country.  He found people were as concerned as he was.

What to do?

Years later, Senator go an idea to organize a nation wide ‘protest’ to what was happening to our environment.  He announced in September 1969 that in the spring there would be a big demonstration for the environment and every was invited. The media sent the story around the U.S. and the response was huge. Concerned citizens from every state wrote and called the Senator to give in support.  20 million people and 39 years later, Earth is having her day.

“Never doubt that a small group of thoughtfully committed citizens can change 
the world. 
Indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.” 
Margaret Mead

Ideas for a great Earth Day:

• Plant a tree, plant, flowers or shrub
• Plant a garden or container garden
• Take all your old newspapers and phone box to the nearest recycle bin
• Make a craft from household items
• Make an Earth Day word find or crossword puzzle
• Try using ‘green’ cleaners
• Watch a movie like ‘March of the Penguins”
• Learn to make paper
• Plant Sunflowers
• Go Green Shopping
• Ecycle