By Liz Fentress | member,
Citizensâ Climate Lobby Chequamegon Chapter
I remember Smokey Bearâs visits to Ashlandâs Wilmarth School in the 1960s. Weâd gather in the new gym and Smokey would lumber in and tell his story. When I recently saw a Smokey sign in the Chequamegon National Forest, it brought a smile to my face â like seeing an old friend. I think Smokey has survived all these years because his message is timeless and asks something specific: Only YOU Can Prevent Forest Fires. Heâs like a superhero for the woods.
I think we need a 21st century companion for Smokey â a superhero for climate change. Like Smokey, our superhero should be easily recognizable and deliver a timeless message â maybe some kind of cool, animated figure who could go viral on Instagram or TikTok. Climate change is a global issue, and our superhero could show up on screens from Wisconsin to India to the North Pole.