Hi,

At Earth Day, we have always believed that environmental progress, economic opportunity, and democratic participation are inseparable. The ability to protect our planet depends on institutions that are accountable, inclusive, and responsive to the people they serve.

That is why we are sharing an invitation to participate in the Free America Walkout.

★ WALK OUT FOR OUR FREEDOMS ★

Learn more: https://www.freeameri.ca/

On January 20 at 2:00 PM local time, people across the country will step away from work, school, and commerce to affirm a simple and enduring truth: a free and just America depends on the active participation of its people.

This walkout is a peaceful, collective action to defend democratic freedoms, human dignity, and the future we all depend on.

★ We step away from systems that exclude and silence.
★ We step toward a Free America rooted in accountability, participation, and justice.
★ We stand for a future that belongs to all of us.
★ Everybody in. Nobody out.

Our support for this moment is grounded in shared long-standing principles.

We believe that every person, every community, and Indigenous peoples in our nation have the right to clean water, clean air, and access to and enjoyment of public lands. We believe our environment and climate must be protected, and that our land and natural resources cannot be exploited for corporate gain or greed, especially at the risk of public safety, health, and cultural destruction. To curb the effects of climate change and repair our planet, we must achieve an equitable and just transition to 100% clean, renewable energy for all. The transition to clean energy will not only reduce pollution, improve air quality, and preserve environmental resources, but also promote safer, healthier pregnancies, physical well-being, and the development of environmentally driven, sustainable jobs.

Jobs created by a growing renewable energy sector must include worker protections such as comprehensive paid family leave, livable wages, and healthy work environments. There must also be a clear framework for training and education to support workers transitioning from pollution-intensive industries into renewable energy roles. Environmental justice, sustainability, and conservation cannot be achieved without civic freedom and democratic accountability. When participation is restricted, communities most affected by pollution and climate impacts lose power. When accountability erodes, public lands, health, and cultural heritage are placed at risk.

Supporting efforts that strengthen democracy is not separate from environmental advocacy. It is foundational to it. We invite you to learn more about the Free America initiative and to consider how you, your organization, or your community might engage in this shared civic moment.

A livable planet requires a functioning democracy, and a democracy requires participation.

With respect and resolve,

James Banks
Global Director of Advocacy and Partnerships

Learn more about Earth Day 2026 here: https://www.earthday.org/earth-day-2026