Senate declares July 17 'Eunice Newton Foote Day,' recognizing overlooked climate-science pioneer

The California State Senate on July 17 adopted Senate Concurrent Resolution 99, designating July 17 as Eunice Newton Foote Day and recognizing the 19th-century scientist’s early experiments demonstrating the warming effect of greenhouse gases.

Senator Allen, who presented the resolution, said Foote’s glass-chamber experiments showed that “an atmosphere of that gas gives to our earth a higher temperature,” and called her work “the first time any scientist, man or woman, had demonstrated the warming effect of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.” Allen recounted that Foote’s paper was presented by a male colleague to the American Association for the Advancement of Science and that the findings were covered in Scientific American in the 1850s.

Senator Blake Spear added floor remarks in support, saying the resolution helps correct historical oversight and that recognition “is 170 years overdue.” The resolution and subsequent floor remarks also highlighted how a modern researcher and collector, Ray Sorensen, rediscovered Foote’s publication in 2011 and helped restore attention to her work.

Senator Allen introduced documentary filmmaker Cathy Kaszek (introduced on the floor), whose film research has spotlighted Foote’s contributions. Allen said the filmmaker’s work helps bring Foote’s discoveries to wider public attention and connects her legacy to ongoing climate research.

The Senate adopted SCR 99 unanimously. The clerk recorded the vote as Ayes 37, Noes 0; the resolution was adopted. The resolution is ceremonial and honors Foote’s historical contributions; it does not create a legal holiday or a state program.

The chamber noted the resolution’s educational value and several senators said the recognition offers role models for women and girls interested in science and history. The resolution’s adoption was followed by the formal introduction of the filmmaker to the Senate floor.