Newton's Rachel Carson Day May 27 Keeps Her Legacy Alive

Submitted by Ellie Goldberg

Newton Mayor David B. Cohen has signed a proclamation to honor the memory and the legacy of Rachel Carson naming May 27 Rachel Carson Day in Newton, Mass.

Whereas we believe in the power of the individual to make a difference; and

Whereas Rachel Carson's birthday, May 27, is an annual opportunity to remember the biologist, ecologist and author and celebrate her legacy; and

Whereas, Rachel Carson taught us that our health is intimately connected to the health of our environment, and that we must remain diligent to protect the natural ecosystem to maintain the health of the world’s citizens; and

Whereas the publication of Rachel Carson’s book Silent Spring in 1962 generated a worldwide environmental movement and led to the creation of the U.S. EPA, the U.S. ban on DDT, and environment regulations such as the Clean Water Act and the Clean Air Act; and

Whereas Rachel Carson faced overwhelming illness and adversity, and yet retained her unwavering motivation to speak out about the hazards of pesticides due to her unabashed love of nature and sense of responsibility for human health and the public interest; and

Whereas, raising awareness of Rachel Carson's life and legacy can inspire citizens to get involved in efforts to protect our water, food and air from the contamination;

Now, therefore, be it resolved, that I, David B. Cohen, Mayor of the City of Newton, do hereby proclaim

May 27, 2009

Rachel Carson Day

In the City of Newton

and do further call on our citizens to remember the power of Rachel Carson’s words and the example of her life.  With a determined collaboration, we can together promote the health and preservation of our environment; and commit to ecological and sustainable principles for landscaping and pest control in our homes, schools, neighborhoods, and throughout our community.

The Green Decade Coalition/Newton Web site, www.greendecade.org, is a treasure of resources and opportunities to get involved in making Newton a more sustainable community.