In the early 1970s John Francis gave up using motorized vehicles after witnessing the devastating effects of an oil spill in San Francisco Bay. Soon afterwards he took an even more radical step: a vow of silence that lasted seventeen years, during which he undertook a pilgrimage by foot across America on behalf of the environment and world peace, earning a Ph.D. in land management along the way. Through his silence and walking, he learned to truly listen, both to other people and the world around him. Since ending his silence in 1990, he has served as a goodwill ambassador for United Nations Environmental Program, founded Planetwalk, a nonprofit environmental education organization, and related the experience of his years of silence in his book Planetwalker: 22 Years of Walking. 17 Years of Silence, published by National Geographic. Accompanied by his ever-present banjo and his gentle but determined demeanor, Francis communicates a surprisingly pragmatic message of pilgrimage and social change.

Lessons From Silence
This passionate yet pragmatic activist shares his message of pilgrimage and social change. His presentation is entertaining, theatrical, and full of wisdom.

Redefining Environment
In this presentation, Francis will use his journey to discuss how the current environmental crisis is a reflection of worldwide social and economic inequity. From peace and justice to everyday civility, Francis contends that our connection to the earth, as well as each other, is at the heart of the environmental crisis.