The Church of Deep Ecology was founded by activists for activists. After years of discussions around campfires, at action camps, and during tree sits, a group of individuals who share a collective belief in the principles of Deep Ecology and Earth-Centered Spirituality came together to form the Church of Deep Ecology. On Beltane/May Day 2018, the group was officially recognized by the U.S. government as a religious congregation. The Church of Deep Ecology engages in social and environmental justice work that is defined by its interpretation of Deep Ecology.