If you have been paying attention to the news, the federal government has pulled back on many of the regulations that protect our environment. This deregulation will have impacts on our health, our livelihoods, our safety, the health of our environment, and our chances to enjoy the beauty and benefits of nature. There are several ways you can show you value the environment by making your voice heard.
Send a postcard to the governor, your state legislators, and your federal legislators. Effective postcards, according to Ignite National, have these characteristics:
- A salutation with the proper title
- The title and number (if available) of the bill you are asking them to support or reject. A quick online search will show you environmental regulations and proposals that you can cite.
- What you want your lawmaker to do
- Your name, city, and zip code. An elected official only needs to listen to you if you are a constituent of their district or state.
Our leaders do not generally hear from us other than on election day. One state legislator stated that getting 7 postcards on a topic is a deluge, so imagine the impact if everyone reading this email took the time to send a postcard to each of their elected leaders.
There will be legal fights to keep the environmental protections in place. The National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) and Earthjustice are highly rated non-profits that use the courts to protect our air, water, and soil, often by collaborating with other non-profits, tribal leaders, and citizens. Donations to either of these organizations can support their work.
Children and youth have a special opportunity right now to show their concern for the environment. The Connecticut Coalition for Climate Action is holding a poster contest. Students in grades K-4 can submit 1 poster per class. The winning classroom will receive a $100 gift card to Staples as well as a visit from someone at Save the Sound. Students in grades 5-12 can create posters individually. The top 3 finalists will win scholarships ranging from $250-$1000. Semi-finalists will have their posters displayed in the State Capitol on Earth Day, April 22nd. All poster submissions are due by April 1st at 5p.m. For the details and submission instructions, go to https://www.climateactionct.org/poster-contest.
Each one of us can be an advocate for the environment. Mother Nature will appreciate it!
