On the eve of the Winter Solstice, the Alaska Department of Health and Social Services is encouraging Alaskans to get outside and ‘Bring Back The Light’ at 5:00 p.m. on December 20.
The aim is to take the darkest evening of the year and shine lights across the state, socially distanced but participating with the same goal: to bring light back to the state, while celebrating some bright spots in the preverbal darkness of 2020.
According to a release from the Department, each light will represent brighter days to come, both literally and figuratively, representing the resiliency of Alaskans. The goal is also to remember each Alaskan lost to COVID-19. Organizations, neighborhoods, and business across the state have been encouraged to participate in bringing back the light.
The plan is to stand outside on Sunday, December 20 at 5:00 p.m. on your porch, patio, or front yard, lighting a candle, turning on a flashlight, headlamp, or lantern. It may even be a perfect opportunity to spread warm cheer by singing holiday songs. Also, take the opportunity to walk around your neighborhood to enjoy the lights and reflect on the brightness that is ahead for all Alaskans, while paying remembrance to the darkness of the past.
Learn more by checking out the Facebook event or on the DHSS winter resiliency website.