Practicing Earth Activism

By Ruah Swennerfelt (Updated 2021 by Hayley Hathaway).

To become more active on behalf of Earth, start by making yourself aware of the issues. Learn from sources in addition to the conventional news reports.

Begin examining ways you can reduce your purchases, buy local, rather than transported, goods, walk or carpool or use public transportation more. Buy second-hand clothing. Challenge your family to reduce energy consumption by installing compact fluorescent bulbs, turning the thermostat down, and replacing old appliances with “Energy Star” rated appliances. Be willing to talk about what you are doing. This is one of the most important steps. It will encourage others to take first steps so together we can really make a difference.

Try writing letters to your state and federal representatives. Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) provides content for letters. Work with members in your Church or Meeting to provide education classes on the issues of the day, including steps for action. Browse QEW’s Resources.

Write letters to the editor of your local newspapers. Write articles for BeFriending Creation or Friends Journal.

Then, if after you have made some personal changes, written some letters, made some phone calls, engaged others into action, and you still feel you are not doing enough, maybe you are being led to more actively demonstrate your concerns. Encourage others in your meeting or church to join together and participate in a vigil or march or other advocacy action for which you feel a leading. Search out neighborhood activities, like a plan to clean up a stream or lake, preserve some land for a wildlife habitat, create bicycle paths, clean up a park or roads, or some other worthwhile project. Working with others to make change can be an incredibly inspiring experience. Invite QEW to come speak about a topic dear to your heart.