Richmond community celebrates women environmental justice leaders

Communities in Richmond joined together from across the state Wednesday for the first-ever celebration of women of faith fighting for environmental justice.

The roles of women and women of color have traditionally been underrepresented in the environmental movement. “We see that in Virginia and all over the nation, women, especially women of color are leading environmental social movements at the grassroots level. This celebration is to recognize all the women who have been leaders in their communities, fighting for safety, equity and justice in their communities.” said Kendyl Crawford, Director, Virginia Interfaith Power & Light.

Women from northern Virginia, Hampton Roads, and central Virginia were recognized. One of the Richmond awardees, Aliya Farooq, Chair of the Refugee Committee of the Islamic Center of Virginia, said “Women are the backbone of our society. We have the power to create change within our personal, family and community life. It’s time for us to take the lead on climate justice and save our dying planet”. The event centered women’s experiences and engagement with the climate crisis.

Kidest Gebre, University of Richmond student, said, “I grew up in Ethiopia and moved to Washington, DC eight years ago. Growing up in Ethiopia, I was exposed to the dangers of climate change early on. I grew up with droughts and food shortages being a regular occurrence and never thought about climate change as the culprit. However, I never thought to connect my two experiences. I know now that it’s no coincidence that poor people of color in the U.S as well as globally are the ones that suffer the most from the consequences of climate change.”

Awardees also emphasized the connection between the environment and health. “Our health is our wealth. Without our health, our quality of life and socio-economic advancement is at risk!! The civil rights implications of environmental and climate injustices are innumerable, and we must work together to find sustainable growth and energy solutions while improving our quality of life and health” said Karen Campblin, AICP, Virginia State Conference NAACP, Environmental and Climate Justice Committee, Chair.

Leaders called for Governor Northam to prioritize addressing environmental justice issues around the state, such as the Atlantic Coast Pipeline and compressor station in the Union neighborhood Hill in Buckingham County. They also called for the meaningful engagement of low-income communities and communities of color in the creation and monitoring of environmental safeguards.

This event was sponsored by Virginia Interfaith Power and Light, Mothers Out Front, and Virginia League of Conservation Voters.