December is the darkest month. But, on the solstice it turns again to the light. Of course, we have to get through the winter first! I’m not crazy about the sun setting at 4:30 p.m., but there is hope for a brighter day as the seasons turn. In the meantime, we can get outdoors and breathe the crisp winter air, hike, or ski, and appreciate the beauty of the snowfall, making our landscapes new. We can dig into long delayed projects, or spend more time with friends and family. If you are one of the many who are affected by the long, dark days, be sure to remember to take time for self-care. Forest bathing, anyone?

In this particular December we are faced with real challenges to our environment and public health. I find inspiration in Al Gore’s words of November 6, 2024:

“For climate advocates across the country, the outcome of this election means that all of us must find ways to redouble our efforts and find bipartisan solutions to the climate crisis that create jobs, promote prosperity, and safeguard the future of humanity.

In a moment such as this, it is important to remember that all major reform efforts, from civil rights to the climate movement, suffer dark days. And this is surely one. We can mourn a loss, but we can’t linger in despair. Our planet doesn’t have time for that. Now more than ever, this movement needs engagement and leadership from all corners of the country.”

You are most welcome to get involved with Sierra Club’s campaigns to protect our environment and communities. Work with us to take practical steps to increase Connecticut’s resilience to the impacts of climate change, on a town or statewide level, and to make your own lifestyle more green. 

Our Legislative Committee is busy with a series of in-district meetings around the state to discuss policy priorities that we hope to advance during the Connecticut General Assembly legislative session, which begins on January 8, 2025. The programs include presentations and discussion about the causes and impacts of climate change, how Connecticut is doing on efforts to address the issue, and solutions that can be implemented. The first meetings were held in Wilton, Fairfield, New Haven, and Mansfield. Coming up this month are Old Saybrook and Greater Hartford.

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On December 8 the Shoreline Group will host Climate, Clean Energy, and Connecticut at 2:00 p.m. in the Old Saybrook Library. Register here. The Greater Hartford Sierra Club Group will host the presentation on December 11 at 7:30 p.m. Register here. If you can’t make it in person, there will be a virtual event on January 6 at 12:00 pm. Register here.

Check out the dates for upcoming presentations at our Events & Outings page.