The period of rapid industrial growth after World War II resulted in vast amounts of pollution. Smog choked cities, acid rain ate away at buildings, litter cluttered streets, rivers caught on fire, and species, including the bald eagle (our national symbol!), nearly went extinct.
These concerns led citizens to organize for change. Fifty years ago, on April 22, 1970, nearly ten percent of the U.S. population gathered to draw attention to these issues and demand action. They were incredibly successful, as the next few years saw the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency, and the passage of foundational environmental laws such as the Clean Air Act, the Clean Water Act, and the Endangered Species Act.
Over the last half century, Earth Day has expanded to nearly every country on Earth. Today’s environmental problems, such as climate change and the extinction crisis, are global in nature, and require international cooperation to address. Therefore, Earth Day provides the ideal chance to raise awareness about the need to protect our home planet.
Happy Birthday World
One way to celebrate Earth Day is to raise awareness through song. Happy Birthday World, by Aline Shader (1936 – 2002), was written for Earth Day, to teach children an appreciation of nature and the world around us. Aline loved the sound of young voices and the smiles on young faces. She also understood the power of music to build confidence, spur the imagination, and foster unity and togetherness.
The beauty of this little gem lies in its simplicity. The lovely unison melody flows over simple chords that lend support for each new phrase. The text is a tender expression of affection for the earth.
“Round and round, till eternity, I’ll take care of you, you’ll take care of me.”
In addition to Happy Birthday World (Student Educational Packet), Aline Shader wrote hundreds of songs, many of which are available for free at Songs Children Sing.
Have you performed a song for Earth Day or given a concert for the environment? If so, leave a comment below so that we can share ideas and bring new awareness to the issues that threaten our home.