Fifty years ago, the first Earth Week drew millions of participants across the U.S. to New York City. It was a moment that captured the hearts of many Americans who dedicated themselves in the fight for clean water, land, and air.
This year GASP is teaming up with southwestern Pennsylvania organizations to escalate the alarms sounded that first Earth Day to raise awareness of the dire urgency required to save our region and the planet. A regional coalition has joined forces to raise the decibel level and Declare a Climate Emergency. An epic, creative collaboration of dozens of local activists, organizations, musicians, artists, videographers and more hopes to raise the bar and call for a list of actions and demands.
While we cannot join with one another in close physical proximity due to COVID-19 concerns, the event promises to be nonetheless historic. The Pittsburgh Earth Week 2020 Teach-In marks a first in the history of SWPA. The goal is to amplify new and familiar local voices from a broad spectrum of Pittsburgh organizations and frontline communities.
Together we will raise up the concerns of many with an epic, creative collaboration of dozens of local activists, organizations, musicians, artists, videographers and more. There will be two events. Sunday, April 19, a Virtual Teach-In will feature speakers, artists, and musicians who will address the harm inflicted on our most marginalized and environmental justice communities. Topics to be addressed include housing, education, employment as well as environmental assaults from air and water pollution, the expanding petrochemical complex and climate change.
The second event will begin at midnight on April 22. A virtual 24-hour Youth Climate Strike broadcast on Fridays for Future Pgh Instagram will feature a team of Fridays for Future Pittsburgh students who will call for a Climate Emergency Declaration. Upper St. Clair High native Leandra Mira will lead the way.
Did we mention that you're invited?
Here's everything you need to know.
