In celebration of Earth Day and in continuation of Earth Week festivities, student poets and artists teamed up with environmentally conscious clubs across campus to bring more attention to conservation.
Crossroads Coffee House in the Plemmons Student Union will hold an open mic night this Thursday from 7-9 p.m. for writers, artists and musicians. Teaming up for this event is Lyric, the spoken word poetry club on campus, and Fossil Free App State, formed in 2012 to bring awareness to the funding of more sustainable energies.
Each open mic participant has been asked to relate his or her works to the three ‘E’s’ of sustainability – ecology, economy and equity.
“Earth talks is an open mic night encouraging students to share artwork, including music, poetry, and visual relating to topics of the environment and social justice,” said Kip McMillan, junior nursing major and Lyric member. “Lyric is helping MC the event and encourages anyone who writes or has something to say about the subjects to participate.”
The event is part of Earth Month, Appalachian State University’s extension of Earth Day, promoted by Sustain Appalachian. Sustain Appalachian has hosted conservation awareness events throughout the month of April.
“Earth Day and Earth Month, as it has become in recent years, is a worldwide celebration of the beautiful habitat in which we all live. It is a time for reflection, celebration, and discussion about how we use our planet’s resources and gifts,” said Olivia Sanders, senior sustainable development major and Fossil Free App State member. “It is a time for humans to realize how connected we all are and to come together over the things we share the most – our heritage and our future.”
“Modern poetry, especially on college campuses, focuses on social justice and equality and draws attention to issues we should all be more aware of,” McMillan said. “Environmental sustainability is an issue everyone needs to be aware of and Lyric wants to help spread the word.”
Sanders hopes that students will come out and attend the event because it will showcase the voices writing the future.
“The passionate people at this event are already working together in many ways, and Earth Talks will extend that enthusiasm,” Sanders said. “I think the only way to redefine your culture’s story is to write it yourself. If we can write that story with our voices, hands, and bodies- who doesn’t want to be a part of that?”
Story: Casey Suglia, Intern A&E Reporter