A truly inspirational story, perfect for our current challenges
In last week’s climate-focused Boiling Point newsletter by the Los Angeles Times columnist Sammy Roth, he highlighted this short (30 minute) film that I found to be especially inspirational, particularly in our current highly polarized and politicized environment. Jon Francis is an unorthodox but deeply committed environmentalist. He:
- took a vow of silence that ultimately lasted 17 years.
- spent 22 years refusing to ride in motor vehicles.
- earned a PhD studying oil spills.
- and helped write new oil pollution regulations.
I wrote around a dozen oil spill contingency plans for companies on the West Coast, based on the regulations Jon helped write, so I have a special appreciation for what he accomplished.
And beyond these accomplishments, as a Black man walking across the US in the 70’s and 80’s while refusing to speak yet still communicating and teaching, he discovered some of the best in humanity. “How we treat each other is the first opportunity we have to positively affect the environment around us.” I’m confident that if you can find 30 minutes during this upcoming holiday break and celebrations, you, too, will be inspired. I also highly recommend signing up for Sammy Roth’s Boiling Point newsletter.
As always, please let me know your thoughts about and reaction to the film. And please share other thoughts about our fight for a livable climate.
Cheers
Bill
