Submit a Proclamation
Requesting a proclamation for International Dark Sky Week is a great way to spark conversations in your community about the importance of protecting the night. The information below will help get you started!
Submitting 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. Learn more about proclamations on the DarkSky website.
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.
Advocating for a proclamation is straightforward, especially with the right tools:
- 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.
- Customize Your Request: Use DarkSky’s Proclamation Template and Template Letter to draft a professional, personalized request.
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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].” - 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.
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.