Blue Ribbons for Clean Water!

AWARE Simcoe July 7 2012

The Blue Ribbon got a boost at a strategy meeting of opponents of the proposed mega-quarry in Melancthon hosted in May by the David Suzuki Foundation. One of the participants, John DeCrombrugghe from AWARE Simcoe wore a blue ribbon attached to the lapel of his jacket.

Asked what the ribbon symbolized, Mr. DeCrombugghe said, “The right to clean and plentiful water.” It became an instant hit with all participants.

It was felt that giving out “blue ribbons for water” would be an excellent means of outreach, fundraising and spreading the message about the quarry, especially since one of the greatest impacts of the proposed quarry would be on local water supplies.

The Blue Ribbon became a potent symbol for the successful Stop Dump Site 41 movement in 2009. First Nations across Ontario launched a Blue Ribbon Capaign on World Water Day in March, 2011, in to support the rising awareness about water issues.