Meaning: Marjory Stoneman Douglas, a journalist, and environmentalist, made the statement "Since 1972, I've been going around making speeches on the Everglades." This quote reflects her lifelong dedication to advocating for the protection and preservation of the Everglades, a unique and ecologically important ecosystem in Florida.

Marjory Stoneman Douglas was born in 1890 and lived to be 108 years old. She witnessed the transformation of the Everglades from a pristine and thriving ecosystem to one threatened by human development and environmental degradation. Her commitment to raising awareness about the Everglades and advocating for its conservation began in the early 20th century and continued until her passing in 1998.

The year 1972 marked a significant milestone in Douglas's advocacy efforts for the Everglades. It was during this time that her influential book "The Everglades: River of Grass" was published. This groundbreaking work not only provided a comprehensive and eloquent description of the Everglades but also served as a call to action for its preservation. The book played a crucial role in shaping public perception and policy regarding the Everglades and solidified Douglas's legacy as a leading voice for environmental conservation.

In addition to her literary contributions, Douglas was actively engaged in public speaking engagements, as indicated in the quote. She utilized these opportunities to educate and mobilize audiences about the ecological significance of the Everglades and the urgent need to protect it from further degradation. Through her speeches, she sought to inspire individuals to become stewards of the environment and to advocate for policies that would ensure the long-term health of the Everglades.

Douglas's dedication to the Everglades extended beyond the realm of public speaking and writing. She was instrumental in the establishment of Friends of the Everglades, an environmental advocacy organization that continues to play a vital role in protecting the Everglades to this day. Through her leadership and activism, Douglas was able to galvanize support for conservation efforts and bring attention to the threats facing this unique ecosystem.

The significance of Douglas's advocacy for the Everglades cannot be overstated. Her unwavering commitment and tireless efforts have left an indelible mark on environmental conservation in Florida and beyond. The Everglades, often referred to as a "river of grass," is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare and endangered species. It also serves as a vital source of freshwater for the region and plays a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.

In conclusion, Marjory Stoneman Douglas's quote encapsulates her decades-long dedication to raising awareness about the Everglades and advocating for its preservation. Through her writing, public speaking, and activism, she became a leading figure in the environmental movement, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire conservation efforts. The Everglades remains a symbol of the ongoing challenges and opportunities in balancing human development with the protection of natural ecosystems, and Douglas's work serves as a reminder of the importance of individual and collective action in safeguarding the environment for future generations.