(although, "granting" rights to mother earth seems sort of redundant, still, nice to know that at least some of our pols recognize that we are all one)
Bolivia Celebrates Law Granting Rights to Mother Earth
LA PAZ, Bolivia, April 20, 2011 (ENS) - Bolivia today marked the International Day of Mother Earth with a ceremony in the Plaza Murillo, the center of political power. An ancient ritual shared center stage with speeches in which authorities in this Andean nation extolled the Law of Mother Earth - the world's first legislation that grants to all nature rights equal to humans.
President Evo Morales, the first indigenous leader of Bolivia, is the architect of the Law of Mother Earth. Supported by politicians as well as nongovernmental organizations, the law is expected to easily pass the National Congress where Morales' ruling party, the Movement Towards Socialism, has a majority in both houses.
Today's event was attended by representatives of the executive branch and legislators, diplomats, indigenous peoples and peasants.
Foreign Minister David Choquehuanca told the crowd, "In Bolivia we seek a return to balance, a harmonious life not only between individuals but between man and nature, so today must be a day of reflection of awareness of all to care for our Mother Earth and take timely means for our mother back to its natural balance."
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http://www.ens-newswire.com/ens/apr2011/2011-04-20-01.html