Are you looking for an “eco-happening” event to help you celebrate this year’s Earth Day?
Summerland’s sixth annual Earth Week line up of activities and events are full of fun, educational, hands-on and thought-provoking things to do.
And if thought-provoking is what you are after, then there are two special events that you will not want to miss.
On Wednesday, April 22, the Philosophers’ Café addresses the topic, Traditional Ecological Knowledge and Western Science.
Join First Nations Knowledge Keeper, Henry Michel and ecological scientist, Don Gayton in a discussion on the two distinct ways of knowing, and how they affect our management of Okanagan lands and waters.
Henry Michel, B.Ed. is a Sepwepemc Knowledge Keeper and teacher. He has been active in Indigenous education, community development, and natural resource management. He currently teaches at the SenPokChin School in Oliver.
Don Gayton, M.Sc., P.Ag, is a well-known local ecologist and writer, specializing in the management of grasslands and dry forests.
These two long-time friends have thought deeply about traditional ecological knowledge and western science, and they look forward to sharing their ideas at the Café. The event takes place at the IOOF Hall on Main Street. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the discussion begins at 7 p.m.
A free screening of the documentary film, Elemental, is scheduled for Friday, April 24 at Centre Stage Theatre, starting at 6:30 p.m.
This award-winning documentary tells the story of three individuals united by their deep connection with nature and driven to confront some of the most pressing ecological challenges of our time. Everyone welcome.
The Philosophers’ Café and Movie Night are just two of the many free events planned for the week of April 19 to 26.
Other events and activities include community clean-ups, a square foot gardening workshop, a guided historical walk along Summerland’s waterfront and riparian area, a potluck dinner using regional heritage recipes, a symbolic removal of the invasive Russian Olive tree, a children’s program consisting of recycled art projects, story-telling, songs and other activities. The week culminates with the ninth annual Earth Day Celebration at Dale Meadows Sports Complex on Sunday, April 26. All events are free.
Summerland’s sixth annual Earth Week Celebration is about community — friends and family getting together to learn more about what we can do to change climate change. With this year’s theme, One Community – One Environment, the goal of Summerland Earth Week is to encourage the community make green choices that improve our planet, our health and the health of future generations.
For more information visit the District of Summerland’s website: http://summerland.ca/docs/default-source/default-document-library/earth-week-celebrations.pdf?sfvrsn=0
Or, our Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/SummerlandEarthweek.
Barbara Thorburn is one of the organizers of Earth Week in Summerland.
