Cross-Cultural Pollination with DEEP

THE RELATIONSHIPS WE KEEP
Our relationships mold us into who we are. Just as we carefully choose our companions, we must also work towards a relationship with the earth that is grounded in respect and reverence. Ecology, the study of relationships, offers a holistic approach to understanding the interconnectedness of life. By studying relationships, we can develop sustainable practices that promote the well-being of ecosystems and the organisms that call them home.

WHAT IS DEEP ECOLOGY?
Deep ecology is about seeing the world as a complex web of interconnected beings. It asks us to live in balance and harmony with the rest of nature, not solely thinking of ourselves. To live deeply is to live with humility and respect, and to cherish the beauty and diversity of the world. It is about understanding our relationships and living in a way that reflects that understanding, honoring, and protecting them for the future.

THE DEEP ECOLOGY EDUCATION PROGRAM
HSP’s Deep Ecology Education Program (DEEP) offers a means to promote ecological awareness and understanding. This program incorporates experiential learning, spiritual and philosophical perspectives, and environmental activism to educate and inspire individuals to make positive changes in their communities and the world at large.

LOCAL PROJECTS
HSP is taking action to apply deep ecology education by partnering with schools across Virginia to create pollinator gardens on their grounds. We work together with service organizations and invite volunteers to join us on garden installation and maintenance projects. Educators play a vital role in this initiative, developing a range of ecologically-focused lesson plans and training teachers to incorporate garden-based curricula for elementary, middle, and high school students across various subjects.

WHY POLLINATOR GARDENS?
Pollinator gardens are a powerful and practical way to put the principles learned through deep ecology education into action. By providing a safe and nourishing environment for pollinators, these gardens help to promote biodiversity and ecological health. These gardens can also serve as living classrooms where students can learn about the critical role that pollinators play in our ecosystem.

CURRENT PROGRESS
In the past month, we have met with six local schools and implemented our first Richmond Public Schools pollinator garden and community garden cleanup. We are continuing to connect with community partners to build a cooperative of students who can engage in schools outside of their own and connect them with job and career pathways. 
We kicked off our concert series in April that benefits our DEEP programming and aids in resource gathering and building for students involved. Our most recent Festival, Terrapin, featured a plant sale with proceeds going towards pollinator garden plans and student-led projects within the community.