Submitted By
Marcella Bondie Keenan, Chief Sustainability Officer
Agenda Item Title
Title
A Motion to Approve a Proclamation to Declare April as Earth Month
End
Overview
Overview
This is a motion to approve a proclamation declaring April as Earth Month, each year.
End
Background
The first Earth Day was celebrated on April 22, 1970, marking a milestone in the U.S. environmental movement, and today serves as an international focal point to celebrate and protect the environment and the interdependence between human and natural communities.
DEI Impact
Climate change disproportionately adversely impacts several marginalized communities, including people of color, low-income individuals, individuals with disabilities, children, older adults, migrants, outdoor workers, and individuals with limited proficiency in the dominant language. This proclamation raises awareness to the issue and serve as a call to action to the Village and community to work towards a more equitable, sustainable community for all.
Previous Board Action
For several years, the Village Board has issued a proclamation declaring Earth Day in April, most recently in April 2022 (MOT 22-29).
Anticipated Future Actions/Commitments
The Village will communicate the importance of community climate action, resiliency, biodiversity, and sustainability efforts in April, and throughout the year.
Intergovernmental Cooperation Opportunities
Intergovernmental partners will be invited to collaborate of climate, biodiversity, and sustainability efforts within Oak Park.