Outrider believes that political and cultural division disrupts climate progress. That's why we're here to help unite parties and communities in taking responsible action.
On the 51st anniversary of Earth Day, bipartisan climate action has never been more important.
At a time when we face political inaction and a looming climate crisis, the significance of Earth Day's 51st anniversary is more relevant than ever.
Climate change affects every one of us.
This is why we need a national plan with bipartisan support: Climate change does not discriminate between red and blue states. It affects each of us in different ways. Gaylord Nelson realized this when he founded Earth Day in 1970.
Our goal is an environment of decency, quality and mutual respect for all human beings and all other living creatures. Our goal is a decent environment in its broadest and deepest sense.
Earth Day Founder, U.S. Senator, and Wisconsin Governor Gaylord Nelson
The first Earth Day is the largest demonstration in American history, with 20 million participants around the country. The event was conceived as a “teach-in” by Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson. Thousands of schools across the country joined in.
Associated Press
Nelson said, “The purpose of Earth Day was to get a nationwide demonstration of concern for the environment so large that it would shake the political establishment out of its lethargy and, finally, force this issue permanently into the political arena.”
CQ Roll Call / Getty
A large group of protestors participates in the first Earth Day demonstration in Chicago.
Paul Sequeira / Getty
Earth Day 1970 on 5th Avenue;
Getty Images
In a show of support, New York’s mayor John Lindsay, a Republican, rides the subway instead of taking a car.
Dennis Caruso / NY Daily News / Getty
Bicyclists gather near the state capitol in Denver, Colorado.
Duane Howell / The Denver Post / Getty
Gaylord Nelson receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Clinton for his advocacy on environmental issues.
Clinton Presidential Library