Posted by On September 8, 2009, when the Senate returns to Capitol Hill, the saga of recreating America’s great economy will continue. At that time, members of Congress will deliberate and debate the specifics of the climate and energy proposed legislation. Going green has indeed gone governmental. Two significant questions are:
- will individual voices from communities across America speak out to make Senators aware of how they feel about this bill; and
- will people tell their hometown politicians what they need from this legislation?
Keeping these questions in mind, the transition to going green20in the mainstream arrives at a significant point in U.S. history. We have seen the election of our first Afro-European American President, as well as, huge stumbles in our banking and housing industries. Something new is afoot.
Right now, the timing is perfect for individuals to add their voice to the fray. The current climate and energy bill facing the Senate narrowly passed the House of Representtives with a vote of 219-212 on July 24, 2009. This is a signal that the governmental tipping point is leaning in the right direction toward tackling reform of business practices which impact our environment. However, Senators will have a lot on their minds after Labor Day.
As they hash out climate and energy sustainability laws, the tough negotiations for health care reform will be underway. Therefore, it is important for every politician to hear from their constituents clearly on what the voters consider important. Several organizations around the country dedicated to the green movement are committed to ensuring the voice of the voters are heard and considered amidst the climate energy debate.
Green for All (www.greenforall.org) is one of many organizations devoted to building an inclusive green economy, strong enough to lift people out of poverty. Green for All is a national non-governmental organization currently led by Phaedra Ellis-Lamkins. The founder, Van Jones, is currently Special Advisor for Green Jobs, Enterprise and Innovation at the White House Council on Environmental Quality.
Greenpeace is a well-known and respected organization, with a track record of commitment to the environment and individual voice. Under the “Take Action” section of their website (www.greenpeace.org), visitors can submit a story sharing their involvement in the environmental movement. Greenpeace will forward the story, along with a photo of the story’s author, including a quick blurb from the organization to Congressional representative of the writer.
Our Senators are in position to take monumental strides toward a sustainable=2 0planet. Let the people guide them on this important part of our journey toward going green!
Lorraine Lyman, MS, is founder of Savvy Success Unlimited, a business and life coaching company specializing in corporate America’s embodiment of the green movement. You can find20her blogging about global sustainability, consciousness, and community at savvysuccess.blogspot.com.
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