On Wednesday, October 29th my daughter attended several lectures and presentations for Half Earth Day at the Field Museum of Natural History. I tagged along and while she was attending the lectures, I explored the museum for the first time in decades. I had been to the museum in recent years for parties for work, but the last time I checked out the exhibits was probably when I was in grade school. As an adult I definitely have a better appreciation and understanding of the mission of the Field Museum than I did when I was a kid.
You can read about Half Earth Day at the link above, but briefly it is an annual event dedicated to biodiversity, organized by the E.O. Wilson Foundation, which is named for the renowned American biologist/naturalist/ecologist/entomologist E.O. Wilson. There are lectures and presentations throughout the day, and an awards ceremony in the evening.
If I am being honest, what drew me to this event was the fact that one of my childhood idols, Harrison Ford would be receiving an award that evening. Also, this was a great opportunity to share in my daughter’s interest in biodiversity and environmental science. These people are so very passionate about their work, and also very forward thinking, which is as refreshing as it is uncommon these days. Harrison Ford is using his platform to bring attention to challenges that our natural world faces, encouraging the younger generation to find its leaders, and acknowledging that we need to get out of their way.
All in all, this was a really great day, and I will definitely do it again. I encourage anyone to check it out and donate if you’re interested and able to do so.