July 17th to the 25th marks Latino Conservation Week, where Latinos across the nation gather to participate in outdoor activities to raise awareness of environmental issues and protect our precious natural resources. This week, give yourself a much needed tech-break and unplug from your devices to unwind in nature.
This year, the environmental crisis has been a critical issue on our minds as rampant wildfires have spread throughout the west leading to massive damage, deforestation, and hazardous air quality. The impact of these wildfires is so great that even the East Coast is suffering. Currently, NYC and the surrounding tri-state area are experiencing hazy skies and unhealthy air quality from the western wildfires over 2,500 miles away.
Now more than ever we need to make our planet a priority. Latino Conservation Week: Disfrutando y Conservando Nuestra Tierra, an initiative of Hispanic Access Foundation (HAF), encourages Latinos to get outdoors and participate in activities to protect our natural resources.
During this week, community, non-profit, faith-based, and government organizations and agencies hold events throughout the country, from hiking and camping to community roundtables and film screenings. These activities promote community conservation and provide an opportunity for Latinos to show their support for permanently protecting our land, water, and air.
Launched in 2014, Latino Conservation Week has grown tremendously over the years and has resulted in broader media coverage and recognition from local, state, and national elected officials of the important role Latinos play as stewards of conservation. Latino Conservation Week has emphasized the Latino community’s passion for the outdoors and also highlighted the importance of preserving not only natural resources but also natural Latino heritage sites.
In honor of #LatinoConservationWeek, we’re highlighting seven Latino heritage sites worthy of national recognition, in partnership w @HispanicAccess. From San Diego, CA to Providence, RI these sites share the vast diversity of Latino identity in the US. https://t.co/YzjO8rqPMc
— National Parks Conservation Association (@NPCA) July 19, 2021
Take a tech-break and explore the great outdoors
I’m sure every Latina entrepreneur and business owner can relate to the struggle of unplugging and taking that much needed tech-break. We always come up with some excuse to stay glued to our devices. But this week, give yourself permission to take that break and indulge in nature.
Check out ways to get involved on the Latino Conservation Week site or create your own event or outing with friends and family or a local community organization. Events can take any shape, from a private event for members of a congregation to a community-wide public event at a nearby National Park or Wildlife Refuge.
You might be interested: 8 Relaxing summer recharge activities to try
ENGAGE – This week is about providing an opportunity for Latinos to come together and to demonstrate their passion for the outdoors — both its enjoyment and preservation.
EXPERIENCE – For many, caring for the environment grows out of our experiences of enjoyment. This week many activities are being offered to help foster that connection.
ADVOCATE – This week is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the Latino support for conservation and stewardship of our outdoors.
Share your outdoor adventures on social media with the hashtag: #LCW2021 and help spread love and awareness for our wonderful planet.
