Earth Day Evolution: Empowering Workers for Climate Justice
April, a pivotal month in the environmental calendar, symbolizes a global call to action for Earth Day, reminding us of our collective responsibility to safeguard our planet and foster a sustainable future. Although lesser known, April 28th commemorates the World Day for Safety and Health at Work. These observances underscore our shared responsibility to protect our planet and highlight the importance of ensuring the safety and well-being of all workers.
Earth Day, founded by Senator Gaylord Nelson in 1970, emerged as a powerful grassroots movement to raise awareness about environmental issues and galvanize action on a national scale. The inaugural Earth Day sparked a monumental shift in public attitudes and paved the way for landmark ecological legislation that shaped our nation’s environmental policies. The Clean Air Act, the Endangered Species Act, and the Environmental Protection Agency were all established in the 1970s in response to the awareness brought about by the establishment of Earth Day. April 22nd has grown into the largest secular civic event in the world, with over 1 billion people participating.
Cardboard sign stating climate justice now.
Similarly, the International Labour Organization’s World Day for Safety and Health at Work is a global platform to promote the prevention of occupational accidents and diseases. This year’s theme, focusing on the impacts of climate change on occupational safety and health, underscores the urgent need for collective action to address the intersection of environmental sustainability and workplace safety. This year’s theme is highly fitting, as 2023 was one of the warmest years on record. A year marred by record deaths for those who work outdoors with little to no legal safeguards, and indoor workers are facing increased opposition to protections.
At our first Community of Practice session for the year, our cohort discussed the history of labor organizing and its ties to environmental justice. We defined terms pertinent to organizers and discussed the Green New Deal and the interconnection between unions and eco-equity. The Jacobin does a superb job espousing the need for unification between labor and climate activists, using Todd E. Vachon’s book Clean Air and Good Jobs as a case study.
As we commemorate Earth Day and World Day for Safety and Health at Work, we reaffirm our commitment to creating inclusive and sustainable workplaces where the well-being of both workers and the environment are prioritized. Together, let us continue championing initiatives that foster a safer, healthier, and more equitable future for all.
In Solidarity,
Brianna, Janelle, + Rob
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