2012-04-20 Celebrating Earth Day

More than 1,500 Albertans will be celebrating their province’s wild side this Earth Day weekend as they climb the 802 stairs of the Calgary Tower at the 21st Annual Climb & Run for Wilderness. Although this event is sure to be a fun filled day for all, we also hope to raise awareness about some of the conservation and environmental issues currently threatening Alberta's wilderness areas.

The first Earth Day took place on April 22, 1970, and was founded by then U.S. Senator Gaylord Nelson. On this day, over 20 million Americans took to streets, parks, and auditoriums to participate in demonstrations and teach-ins, bringing attention to a myriad of environmental issues. According to organizers, "Earth Day 1970 achieved a rare political alignment, with support from Republicans and Democrats, rich and poor, city slickers and farmers, tycoons and labor leaders."

Now, 32 years later, we are still desperately in need of a day dedicated to celebrating the Earth. And in the midst of a provincial election, it would be tremendous to see all provincial parties in agreement over the need to take action to protect and preserve Alberta's wilderness, wildlife, and wild waters. Please join us in celebrating this Earth Day, at the Climb and Run for Wilderness.