SierraScape April - August 2017
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by Ken Schechtman
Eastern Missouri Group Executive Committee Chair
Much more than the season has changed since the fall 2016 issue of SierraScape. Last year in these pages we highlighted candidates and campaigns which we hoped would advance environmental protection, combat climate change and strengthen our democracy. But the election results were mostly a setback.
In the months since we have been shocked to see the Trump administration's efforts to roll back environmental rules and remake agencies, such as the EPA, from protection focused to polluter friendly. In our Missouri legislature we have seen attacks on parklands, obstacles against renewable energy proposed and support for polluting industries.
Although it may seem that election day changed everything, some things have not changed. The Sierra Club is still strong and growing. We may need to recalibrate our approach in 2017, but our values and determination have not changed.
The majority of Americans value clean air, clean water and public lands. The renewal of the state Parks and Soils tax passed in every county in Missouri, showing support for a clearly demonstrated conservation value.
But not all issues are that straightforward. And we know polluter interests, and the politicians they pay, are all too willing to confuse the public and obfuscate environmental issues to their own advantage. Our work is to push back with a clear message that ties conservation, environmental protections and the opportunities for clean energy to healthy communities on a healthy planet with a sustainable future.
In this issue you will find ways you can help. Join us for lobby day, April 12. If you can't join that day, write or call your state legislator. Tell the Army Corps of Engineers to restore the Missouri River. Comment on a new roads and trails plan for Ozark National Scenic Riverways. Tell your Senators and Representatives to keep the EPA strong. Attend our monthly programs to learn more and meet others. Enjoy an outing!
And most of all, do not succumb to the sirens of despair. This past election was a body blow to us all. But body blows are an endemic reality in every worthwhile struggle. Progress is not a neat linear process that moves easily from A to B to the nirvana of C. It always cohabits with setbacks, betrayals, and nagging bouts of anguish.
The civil rights movement was afflicted with Bloody Sunday in Selma, the church bombings, and the murder of so many good people, the best any country could possibly offer. But it grew into what may be the proudest moment of our history. If despair had won out, the women's suffrage and labor movements would be irrelevant footnotes to history. And you might not be reading this today if we had not been bequeathed the environmentalism of 1970s ancestors who refused to give up.
The defeats will only be followed by victories if we keep on keeping on. So take advantage of the opportunities to contribute that are offered in this and other SierraScapes. You will feel good about your contribution. And the planet will be grateful.