Oxford Holds Earth Day Fest

By Claire Williams

Miami University journalism student

Oxford residents and Miami University students came together last Saturday for the annual Earth Day Fest in the uptown park.

The event's goal is to raise awareness of environmental issues while also providing a fun, family friendly atmosphere.

While the weather was in the mid-forties and cloudy, it did not dull the celebration. Different tables were set up, sponsored by student organizations and Oxford stores. There were craft tables with Earth Day themed projects, food, and live music.

Miami student Drew Rozman walked by the festival and decided to stop to take a look around. He had not intended to visit the tables, as it was a cold day and he wanted to get to where he was going, but he was surprised when he saw other students he knew.

"It’s cool to see everyone out here even when it’s cold like this. You know that people really care about making Earth Day relevant, even if it’s something small like this."

Raising Awareness

As well as tables dedicated to the environment, there were tables set up to promote Oxford businesses, like grocery stores and restaurants, all providing water bottles and information about their products.

Several booths had plant based crafts. Small potato plants could be decorated in ceramic pots, seeds of herbs, flowers, and vegetables could also be purchased.

Amy Miller, a Miami student who had passed by on her way home, says that she was glad to see people actually trying to do something productive for Earth Day.

"I feel like a lot of people just let it pass. Especially now, with a president in office who doesn't seem to care about the environment. It's just nice to know that not everyone has rolled over on this. Even just being able to plant seeds or show a kid how to plant a tree is important."

Photo: The Oxford Earth Day Fest was organized by Miami's Institute for the Environment and Sustainability. Also taking place on Earth Day was Oxford's own March for Science. --Photo by Claire Williams