Sunrise Movement Santa Barbara will host a socially distanced Beach Cleanup and Climate Rally, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Saturday, April 24 to commemorate Earth Day and demonstrate support for a Green New Deal that guarantees good jobs for all.

The rally will include speakers, art and music, and will be followed by a beach cleanup. Participants are urged to bring their own art, signs and supplies (some may be provided). Mask wearing and social distancing are mandatory and will be strictly enforced.

The first Earth Day was established on April 22, 1970 in response to a major oil spill off the Santa Barbara Coast. The public support that followed inspired millions to demand climate action from their politicians and the oil companies responsible for the spill.

The spill prompted mass outrage and the passing of legislation, which helped shape today’s environmental movement. This year, Sunrise Movement is demanding the government enact a Green New Deal that guarantees a good job to anyone who wants one, and works to address racial, economic, environmental and social injustice.

Sunrise Movement is a youth movement to stop climate change and create millions of good jobs in the process. The group is building an army of young people to make climate change an urgent priority across America, end the corrupting influence of fossil fuel executives on our politics, and elect leaders who stand up for the health and well-being of all.