A Dog in the Fight for Sustainability
People gathering at Oronoco Park prior to the start of the 2022 ALX Dog Walk.
Gloria Gaynor’s voice blasted over the treetops surrounding Oronoco Park, belting “I Will Survive” as I quickened my pace in anticipation of the inaugural ALX Dog Walk for sustainability in Old Town Alexandria. More than 600 people and their pups signed up for the two-mile walk along the waterfront on April 2, all with one mission: to raise awareness on climate change. And I couldn’t think of a better way to kick off the month that celebrates the Earth, even at 8:00 a.m. on a Saturday.
I had no idea how many people would arrive to support Alexandria’s new effort to raise funds to beautify and preserve the environment and educate everyone on sustainable living practices. When I rounded the corner and saw the park full of hundreds of people and dogs, gathered on the grass spanning to the edge of the Potomac River, feelings of hope and inspiration overwhelmed me. I paused, drinking in the crowd, the music, and the energy of all the excited Alexandrians and dogs making new friends.
Most of all, I was delighted by the turnout of people who came together to spread the message that our environment and our community are a priority. What better way to share our commitment to sustainability than bringing joy to others through the boundless enthusiasm and love emanating from hundreds of dogs?
As a plastic-free event calling an end to single-use disposables, it came as no surprise to see local zero waste store Mason & Greens hosting a table alongside The Dog Park, a pet store in Alexandria, and other vendors in town. It was truly a wonderful display of community connection and of people gathering to live in the moment and walk for the future.
After a few remarks from the mayor, who pointed out several city council members in attendance, the dogs and their families lined up along the waterfront path with their tails wagging. We walked the two miles, attracting the attention of fellow Alexandrians with large and small dogs, some even in costume, and letting them know we were walking for the planet.
One of the many signs guiding participants in the ALX Dog Walk.
With so many doomsayers and anxious people guilting and shaming others who don’t care about climate action, this event was a preach-free, trash-free, refreshing change of pace. The walk was a huge success and proof that when people connect to each other as a community, we can make and inspire change in a way that makes everyone feel good.
The ALX Dog Walk’s message was clear: We will survive.
