Open Your Eyes to Climate Justice

African American communities often experience environmental injustice. More often than other communities they live near polluting industries, experience elevated rates of respiratory disease, and have less access to green space. These injustices are commonly not accidental; they’re rooted in a legacy of systemic racism and neglect. Despite this, Black leaders, scientists, and activists have been essential in driving the environmental justice movement forward. Recognizing their contributions is not just remembering history, it’s about equity and action. At Accelerate Climate Solutions, we reflect these values in our work: 

• Through youth-led programs like BLAST, we empower students to lead sustainability projects.

• By delivering presentations and participating in alliances with other organizations, we engage directly with the residents of our community to increase awareness about environmental justice. 

• By speaking with local leaders, such as elected officials and civil rights advocates, we learn about and advocate for inclusive climate efforts. 

True climate solutions must center the voices and experiences of marginalized communities, because justice for the planet means justice for all its people.

A Quick Fact Sheet