Taking Action for International Dark Sky Week 2025

The night sky has always inspired us, reminding us of the universe’s beauty, wonder, and vastness. Yet, for millions worldwide, the night and our view of the stars continue to fade as light pollution obscures this shared natural treasure and heritage.

International Dark Sky Week, April 21–28, 2025, is a global celebration and call to action to reconnect with the night, protect its natural beauty, and inspire change. Whether new to the mission or a longtime advocate, this is your chance to make a difference in your community and beyond.

The Importance of International Dark Sky Week

The night sky is more than just a backdrop for stargazing—it’s a vital shared resource with ecological, cultural, and scientific value. Light pollution disrupts ecosystems, impacts human health, wastes energy, and robs us of the stars. Yet, it’s one of the most solvable environmental challenges.

International Dark Sky Week brings communities together. It’s a time to celebrate the night’s beauty, connect with others, and work toward a future where the stars are visible to all.

This week is more than a commemoration; it’s a movement that empowers individuals and organizations to make a lasting impact. One of the most engaging and powerful ways to participate is by requesting a proclamation!

Proclamations: A Foundation for Advocacy

Requesting a proclamation is a great place to start for those looking to take action during International Dark Sky Week. Proclamations are formal statements issued by governments or institutions that recognize significant causes or events. They’re a practical and accessible way to engage local leaders, raise awareness, and spark conversations about light pollution.

Why Proclamations Matter

Proclamations offer a unique combination of visibility and accessibility. They:

• Raise Awareness: Proclamations highlight the issue of light pollution and its effects, helping to bring it into public and governmental focus.
• Engage Leaders: Local officials can show support for dark skies with minimal commitment, making proclamations a low-risk, high-reward opportunity for advocacy.
• Inspire Community Participation: Proclamations can be amplified by linking them to events like star parties or workshops. Share them with local media! 
• Lay the Foundation for Policy: Proclamations often lead to deeper discussions about long-term solutions, such as lighting ordinances or community initiatives.

Proclamations are not just for the U.S.; alternatives like Declarations, Letters of Support, or Ceremonial Documents can achieve similar outcomes in regions without formal processes.

How to Request a Proclamation

Advocating for a proclamation is straightforward, especially with the right tools:

1. Research Local Procedures: Check your city, county, or state/provincial website for submission guidelines. If no formal process exists, contact your local representative to explore alternatives.
2. Customize Your Request: Use DarkSky’s Proclamation Template and Template Letter to draft a professional, personalized request.
3. Contact Your Representative: Keep your message clear and actionable when reaching out. For example:
   “Hi, I’m [Your Name], and I’d like to request a proclamation recognizing International Dark Sky Week, April 21–28, 2025. This global initiative raises awareness about light pollution and celebrates the beauty of the night sky. I’d be happy to assist with the next steps to make this happen in [Your Area].”
4. Follow-up: Ensure your request is moving forward with polite follow-ups. Persistence often makes a difference.

Share and Celebrate: Once approved, share the proclamation with us at [email protected] and log it in our Tracking Spreadsheet. To maximize its reach, announce it at events, through media outlets, and on social media.

Beyond Proclamations: Building Community Impact

Proclamations are a great starting point, but many other ways exist to celebrate International Dark Sky Week and spread its message. Whether you’re part of a DarkSky chapter or an individual advocate, here are ideas to make a local impact:

Host Public Events

• Star Parties: Partner with local astronomy clubs or parks for telescope viewings and stargazing nights.
• Eco Talks or Festivals: Organize discussions or festivals that explore how protecting dark skies benefits ecosystems, human health, and the environment.
• Lighting Walks: Lead tours showcasing responsible outdoor lighting and its benefits for communities and wildlife.
• Workshops: Teach practical steps for reducing light pollution at home, such as selecting shielded fixtures or installing timers.

Creative and Inclusive Activities

Make International Dark Sky Week accessible and engaging for everyone:

• Astrophotography Challenges: Encourage participants to capture and share the night sky, fostering creativity and awareness.
• Virtual Star Parties: Offer online events for those without access to outdoor spaces or clear skies.
• Themed Celebrations: Host an “Earth Night” on April 23 to continue the conversation beyond Earth Day.

Spread the Word Locally

Advocates can expand the reach of International Dark Sky Week by collaborating with:

• Schools: Introduce dark sky education through classroom activities or presentations.
• Tourism Boards: Highlight dark-sky-friendly destinations and astrotourism opportunities in your area.
• Advocacy Groups: Partner with conservation organizations to align dark sky efforts with broader environmental goals.

You can create lasting awareness and action by weaving International Dark Sky Week into community networks.

A Global Movement with Local Roots

International Dark Sky Week is more than a weeklong event—it’s a chance to connect with a global movement and make a local impact. Every action, from requesting a proclamation to hosting a star party, contributes to a brighter future for the night sky.

This April, join us in celebrating and protecting the stars. Explore resources, plan your activities, and share your success. Together, we can ensure the night sky remains a source of wonder for generations to come.

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