Olympia City Council proclaims April as Earth Month

The Olympia City Council approved a proclamation designating April as Earth Month during its April 19 meeting Tuesday.

The city council followed suit Washington State Gov. Jay Inslee’s proclamation of observing Earth Day for the entire month of April to recognize the urgency of enlisting all people to protect and sustain life on the planet.

“All of us, as caretakers of our planet, have an obligation to change the human behaviors that contribute to climate change and environmental degradation to preserve the Earth’s beauty and its resources,” the proclamation stated

Olympia city also urged people to participate in protecting the Earth.

“In celebrating Earth Month, local citizens, the schools, environmental organizations and businesses have raised over 100 Earth Flags to promote local activism and global environmental consciousness,” Olympia Mayor Cheryl Selby said during the hybrid city council meeting.

According to the proclamation, Earth Day was created 52 years ago to recognize the importance of everyone’s participation in preserving natural resources. About 20 million Americans joined the first Earth Day event, where they rallied for a healthy and sustainable environment.

In 1995, on Earth Day’s 25th anniversary, a procession of species was held to support the Congressional renewal of the Endangered Species Act.

“It inspired thousands - young and old - to deepen their understanding, appreciation, and protection of the natural world,” stated in the proclamation.

“The global community now faces extraordinary challenges such as global health issues, food and water shortages, and economic struggles.  All life forms on Earth have a right to a healthy, sustainable environment,” it added.