When the Earth Care Working Group first came together, it seemed logical to include a web presence. It quickly became clear that most of our members preferred local and one-on-one methods of transmitting information, and so this blog, quite obviously, fell into disuse. I seriously considered taking it off the web for fear that visitors might assume we had simply disappeared as so many organizations have, and to make our url available for a more tech-centered environmental group.
And my have we ever NOT faded away! Two years ago we struggled to identify a niche for our group; after all, many organizations in the area work on earth care. But we still felt a unique leading to participate in this wonderful, burgeoning movement of people who wish to live in more sustainable ways. At one point we decided to have a “movie night” at a member’s house; we screened “Fuel” and served a simple supper of soup and bread. It was an insightful evening for everyone, and we decided to do another. We followed with “Food, Inc.,” “King Corn,” and others covering food, co-housing, permaculture, and climate change. Gradually we realized we had found our place in the conversation: to bring together an intimate group of people who were in the process–some at the beginning, some well along the path–of changing theirs and their community’s lives to better care for the earth. We choose films that highlight the problems we face as a planet, but more importantly, inspire us to participate in creative solutions to them. Our goal is to create hope and energy where there is discouragement and fatigue.
Because these films are currently screened at a member’s private home, it would be inappropriate to open them to the general public. Our turnout has been wonderful just through word of mouth.
That being said, we still wish to reach out to any one in the community who would like to learn more about earth care and meet a group of like-minded folks to share in conversation and good food. If you live in Iowa City or the surrounding area and would like to become part of this extended conversation, please email me at jlpannell at gmail dot com and we’d be happy to welcome you.
At some point the membership composition may change and move toward a greater web presence; for the meantime, we talk, we eat, we change. Join us.
