As a theatremaker focused on climate issues, I am continually inspired by creators, makers, and shakers in arts, sciences, and politics. This globe was passed to me by my friend and mentor, Chantal Bilodeau at The Arctic Cycle, a female-driven theatre organization fostering dialogue and action on climate through the arts. I have found deep connections and galvanizing actions through working with The Arctic Cycle, particularly through contributions to our platform Artists & Climate Change alongside a core team of fearless women, and in co-organizing our global initiative Climate Change Theatre Action now in its third iteration. Carry the EARTH is another of those galvanizing projects for me.

When I received the globe, I was contemplating my habits and long-term goals. The action-oriented nature of Carry the EARTH was just the galvanization I needed to recommit to myself: adopt the habit of composting, and set out a plan for my long-term goal of becoming a drama therapist. As a New York City resident, I have made sporadic use of city efforts to reduce food waste by collecting my compostable food waste for drop-off at a collection site. The excuses easily pile up for me to go straight to the landfill with my food waste. Holding the globe in my hands reminded me that my habits are part of a larger culture of disposal: consume what I want, discard the rest to a landfill. The globe reminded me that I can habituate toward a reciprocal culture, where food scraps are diverted from the waste stream to be composted for fertilizer. With a collection site along my commute every Wednesday, I am going to make composting part of my routine.

I am also galvanized to pursue my interest in mental health care. I feel grief for species we have already lost, for populations who have already been moved from their home because of environmental degradation. I feel overwhelmed at the immensity of the climate crisis. I feel isolated, despite knowing intellectually that I am not alone. Receiving the globe coincides with my nascent goal of becoming a drama therapist, to support others in mental health capacities in this age of the anthropocene.

Holding the globe in the midst of my great big city, I’m reminded that to change everything, we need everyone. We need to undo oppressive systems, and make systems built on equity, justice, and inclusion. I’m still learning, growing, evolving. I am honored to be part of this creative climate journey.

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