Friday, September 19, 2014

Peace and Climate Change - A busy September 21



Hello everyone,

I hope this note finds you well. 

I've been busy working with some amazing people on a pollinator sanctuary idea for my city. Haven't done much writing here.  I'm just now lifting my head from that project, and finding that autumn is almost here.

Sunday, September 21 is a busy day.

Saturday September 21/14 is International Peace Day, with peace activities around the world.  Here in London, Ontario there'll be a rededication of the Peace Garden near the forks of the Thames River.  Start time is 3:00 p.m.

It's been a neglected garden.  Most Londoners have no idea it's there.  Built in 1987, through the work of local peace activists - and mindful of labour's role in peace movements -  it was a lovely space ... quiet.  Over the years, its plantings became standard and easy-upkeep for City staff (which I don't blame them for ... they sort of inherited caring for the space and City budget is strapped for money for flowers).  The area of the river has far more foot and bicycle traffic now than years back too.  There's an even bigger need for a quiet space ... just off the beater (asphalt) path and across the path from the splash pad that was put in for summer use.

I'm looking forward to seeing what the Peace Garden is changing into, and hope to get down there for at least some of the event.  The facebook page set up for the garden and event is https://www.facebook.com/pages/London-Peace-Garden/243864725805956

Sunday September 21 in New York will see tens of thousands of U.S. and Canadian citizens – demanding action on the climate crisis. The march is timed to build pressure on world leaders and in support of UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon’s Climate Solutions Summit on September 23.  I noted in the news yesterday that Ban Ki-moon is going to be in that parade.  I'm not sure if participation in such a radical event has ever been by someone in his position.  My first thought when I read the article was: this man's a grandfather. 

And I just noticed ... on the Peace Garden facebook page ... that London is holding a Climate Change march, beginning at 1:30 at the Fountain at the Forks ... which will end at the Peace Garden.

Nice circle there.

And, of course, we think of September 21 as being the equinox - the start of autumn in this case.  I think that astronomically the equinox is actually another date, but I'll stick with the 21st.

Yes, it's a season of change.

Kindest regards to you all,

Why's Woman