Every year on June 5, World Environment Day is celebrated around the globe.
We'd like to amplify the voices of 10 Black leaders and influencers who are dedicated to protecting both people and the planet.
Their tremendous contributions to the world speak for themselves. Take a minute to read the stories they share and learn from them. Not only are they advocates, they are teachers and are using their platforms to teach people around the world how to be allies.
Leah Thomas | @greengirlleah “Social justice cannot wait. It is not an optional “add-on” to environmentalism.”
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson | @ayanaeliza ”There are ~23 million black Americans who are *already* deeply concerned about the #ClimateCrisis. (MILLION!) But how can we expect Black people to effectively lead their communities on the existential threat of climate when faced with the existential threat of racism?”
Danni Washington | @danniwashington “Nature is a major catalyst for healing and we will need safe opportunities to be outside in order to overcome 400 years of trauma and pain.”
Mikaela Loach | @mikaelaloach “Anti-racism is not a trend. It should be weaved into all of our actions. We need you to show up all the time. If you don't have the words, amplify someone else's.”
Dominique Drakeford | @dominiquedrakeford “...My ENTIRE being is for the purpose of Black Restorative ‘Justice’ in the form of regenerative sustainability--healing & building!”
Noami Grevemberg | @irietoaurora “What you should be doing is listening and learning. Allies, co-conspirators, what y’all need to do is follow OUR lead and hold your non-black peers accountable. Part of being an ally is knowing when to speak and when to listen.”
Tabitha Brown | @iamtabithabrown “We all must do our part. I choose to spread love while spreading awareness! I believe it can be done without violence. I believe that with my entire heart!”
Ashley Renne | @heyashleyrenne “Being black, sustainable, and vegan is a life of physical, mental, and emotional battles. When you speak out against racial injustice, you're angry. When you speak up about climate justice, you're preachy. When you speak up for animals, you're judgy. It's tiring to constantly witness people projecting their insecurities on those who plead for justice.”
Genesis Butler | @genesisbutler_ “One of my favorite parts of being an activist is meeting amazing activists who aren’t afraid to speak up for what they believe in.”
Jenné Claiborne | @sweetpotatosoul “When everything in our world seems bad and hopeless, it is my protest to take care of myself, be present for my daughter, recharge my spirit, spend time in nature, eat nourishing food, practice yoga, exercise, dance, connect with the higher power, and do all of the other things that make me feel JOYOUS & ALIVE. Black lives do matter, and you best believe, I am going to LIVE!"