Tonight this line popped into my head:

Woah-oh, oh, mercy, mercy me
Oh things ain’t what the used to be, no, no,
Where did all the blue skies go? 

This powerful song by Marvin Gaye came out over 50 years ago and talked about big problems in the environment. Around the same time, Joni Mitchell sang, They paved paradise and put up a parking lot. These artists inspired people to care about nature.

In 1970, 20 million people came together for the first Earth Day. That was a huge moment. Now, 55 years later, we’re still standing up for our planet. This year’s Earth Day theme is: “Our Power, Our Planet.” It reminds us that we can use renewable energy to fight climate change — but I believe the real power comes from people like YOU.

In communities across Canada, people are planting trees, cleaning up parks, teaching kids about nature, and making time to help out. Whether it’s by donating, signing a petition, or calling a local leader, every action matters.

Thank you to the thousands who have already signed our Vote for Nature pledge, read our Nature Platform, and shared its important message with friends. If you’re reading this, you’re probably one of the 80% of Canadians who want our government to do more to protect land, water, and wildlife. You’re not alone.

We’re sharing our members’ voices today:

Linda, BC: “Preserving nature is critical to the survival of our home, Planet Earth.”

Gail, AB: “There is nothing more pressing than preventing further climate change!”

Sharon, ON: “Are profits really more important than our home – the Planet Earth?”

Joseph, NS: “Nature has rights which should be recognized by our governments.”

Richard, QC: “Canada is Nature. Let’s protect it for our health and happiness.”

Christine, ON: “Nature is our home. It is the government’s responsibility to follow the will of Canadians and our direction to protect Nature Now!”

No doubt these words will inspire you, so please join in! Add your voice, donate, and vote for nature.

It’s been a tough few weeks in the world, but you’re not powerless. Let these words — and another memorable song — remind you: “What a wonderful world.”

Keep that thought in your heart, and wake up each day ready to protect nature’s future — and ours.

The best part of my day is connecting with members and supporters like you! I love hearing from you about your stories, your memories, and your reasons for giving. You are always invited to contact me anytime for a conversation. Thank you!

Jodi Joy
Director of Development
1-800-267-4088 or 613-562-3447 ext. 239
jjoy@naturecanada.ca