Senate Resolution No. 2109

BY: Senator PARKER

MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim
April 1, 2022, as Fossil Fools Day in the State of
New York

WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize
significant days dedicated to improving and protecting the natural
environment of which all citizens of this State and Nation benefit; days
devoted to raising awareness and counteracting harmful practices that
negatively affect the environment are of utmost importance; and

WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its
long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 1, 2022, as Fossil
Fools Day in the State of New York; and

WHEREAS, Fossil Fools Day was created to raise awareness about
environmental concerns as a result of the burning of fossil fuels;
although they are a cheap and available source of energy, fossil fuels
emit carbon dioxide in massive amounts which is hazardous for our
environment; and

WHEREAS, The purpose behind Fossil Fools Day is to spread knowledge
about alternative energy sources and to request people's support for and
commitment to shaping a sustainable future; and

WHEREAS, Fossil Fools Day came into existence in 2004, when Canadian
and American college students decided to play strategic pranks centered
around climate change; the students made unpleasant demonstrations of
dangers resulting from fossil fuel production and emissions in the
public eye and on university campuses with the motive of having the
public acknowledge and confront the global crisis; and

WHEREAS, Through the demonstrations, students pointed fingers at
major carbon emitters, like the Chief Executives of oil and natural gas
companies, government leaders, and legislators who push for drilling
projects, construction of pipelines, fracking, and more; these are the
'Fossil Fools' that the day refers to; and

WHEREAS, The reason for this day is not just about student displays
and mock protests; as responsible citizens, everyone needs to do our bit
to save our planet from decaying, such as making simple lifestyle
changes like ditching cars and riding bikes, reducing screen timing,
using solar-powered lights, cooking with wind energy, and the like; and

WHEREAS, The most efficient ways to observe Fossil Fools Day is to
educate oneself, join rallies for climate action, and to teach the
people in your lives about the threats and dangers facing the planet and
the environment; and

WHEREAS, The goal of Fossil Fools Day is not to plan only one day of
events and activities, but to continue worldwide efforts to protect all
aspects of the environment; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to
memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim April 1, 2022, as Fossil
Fools Day in the State of New York; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be
transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New
York.