This year’s Wake Forest Earth Day protest brought renewed urgency to protecting our environment. Fifty-six years ago, government officials and activists alike came together to protest for better care of our planet. Within the year, the EPA was established. New laws followed: the National Environmental Education Act, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, and the Clean Air Act. (Two years later, Congress would pass the Clean Water Act.)
Today, the current administration has gutted these critical pieces of legislation. From pulling out of the Paris Climate Accord to rescinding key EPA findings, this White House puts us all at risk. Additionally, it has attacked wildlife protections and pushed back against clean energy.
Wake Forest residents refuse to stand by as this administration attacks our home. Today, members of Wake Forest Indivisible protested against this administration’s actions and in honor of protecting our only home. At Rogers Rd. and S Main St., Indivisible protestors received the most positive feedback ever at that location.
Wake Forest Earth Day Protest: A Community Stands Up
Only two weeks ago, while protesting the war in Iran, the group faced a different reception. Passing motorists harassed their leaders with offensive gestures and verbal insults. Today brought only positive honks and waves. This shows that caring for the environment is far more bipartisan than we’re led to believe.
Local citizens are upset at the devastation of our lands and our reputation as a country. Last Saturday, near the Wake Forest Farmers Market, the Indivisible tent helped people change and repair their voter registration. People also had long conversations about the negative impacts of so many policy reversals and surprise changes.
That’s why our local chapter of Indivisible was out this afternoon. They came to raise awareness — and to prove what’s already true: people care.
Local events like Forest Fest promote a healthier environment — now more crucial than ever. This is especially true as this administration decimates the National Forest Service. Local environmental groups like the Neuse River Hawks and Wake Forest Conservation need our support. Together, we can protect our town and places like Smith Creek.
Now more than ever, we must love the Earth. From our neighbors to our global peers, every action counts.
