We are thrilled to announce that One Earth Collective is partnering with the Annual Environment & Spirituality Summit this year! This special event, hosted by our friends at Faith in Place—the IL, IN, and WI affiliate of Interfaith Power and Light—takes place from September 22-24. It offers a unique hybrid experience with all sessions available on Zoom and local keynote watch parties hosted in IL, IN, and WI. You can view the watch party locations here.
In June and July, Austin Grown, a collaborative initiative between One Earth Collective and BUILD Chicago, embarked on a transformative six-week journey of planting, nurturing, and learning. Participants went into the realms of environmental stewardship, racial and social justice, and personal well-being through engaging activities, including hands-on gardening, cooking, and educational excursions.
Ever wondered how the films for One Earth Film Festival are selected? Reviewing films is a volunteer role, and one way that you can get involved with the film fest next year. Film reviewing usually starts in the summer—we call it our "summer movie club."
Many film festivals seek submissions, but we have a unique model in that we go out looking for the best of the best films from all over the world. We look at other film festivals, industry awards, what's hot in popular culture, and recommendations from festival friends.
Festival audiences expect to leave screenings with information that will guide them in taking the next steps on their sustainability journey. That is the Power of We. When people feel connected to others by a common passion or commitment, much gets done. Problems are solved. Communities become healthier. The Earth gets healed.
Chicago is fortunate to have many advocates on the front lines of climate action and environmental and social justice.
Betsy was inspired by this year’s OEFF’s theme, The Power of We, to unite people across differences, to collaborate for the planet and future generations. “The theme line really offers a point of view for the direction of the film fest, and one that speaks to me personally,” she said. “I love the grassroots flavor and the way it challenges us. What’s better than empowering us as individuals to work together on important issues facing our planet?”
One Earth needs hundreds of volunteers to help us bring our thought-provoking and community-activating programs to life. Please consider lending a bit of your time and energy to this year’s Fest. You’ll work side by side with people like Erik Malone, a long-time volunteer with us, and an all-around wonderful person.
