This year, President Biden paused all new expansions of dangerous gas export hubs in the U.S., a move that experts have called a significant environmental win. However, the role of Black women in achieving this victory has gone largely unrecognized. Black women have played a crucial role in community organizing and activism to push for a halt on new expansions of dirty gas. Despite the progress made, there is still work to be done to ensure a permanent end to these harmful practices, and it is important to highlight the leadership of Black women in the climate movement.
People of color, especially Black women, are disproportionately affected by the impacts of the climate crisis, yet they are often sidelined and not acknowledged as leaders in the environmental movement. The enforced gender inequality that Black women face makes them even more vulnerable to environmental harms. Despite these challenges, Black women are uniquely positioned as essential leaders in the climate movement due to the historic and continuing impacts of colonialism, racism, and inequality. Recognizing the leadership of Black women is crucial for creating inclusive and effective climate solutions.
Dr. Melanie Harris coined the term eco-womanism, a theological approach to environmental justice that centers the perspectives of Black women across the diaspora. An eco-womanist approach to climate solutions is gaining traction in the Gulf South region of the United States, where Black women are leading efforts to combat climate injustice. Leaders like Sharon Lavigne, Dr. Beverly Wright, Roishetta Ozane, Dr. Joy, and Jo Banner have spearheaded educational campaigns, organized protests, conducted research, and fought against polluters in the region known as ‘Cancer Alley.’
The Gulf South region, stretching from New Orleans to Baton Rouge, is home to over 200 fossil fuel and petrochemical operations, earning it the nickname ‘Cancer Alley’ due to the high levels of pollution and environmental degradation. Black women in this region have been at the forefront of the fight for environmental justice, challenging lawmakers, government agencies, and corporations to protect their communities from the harmful impacts of industrial pollution. Their dedication and resilience have been instrumental in pushing for policy changes and raising awareness about the urgent need for sustainable and equitable solutions to the climate crisis.
Despite facing systemic barriers and injustices, Black women continue to play a vital role in advocating for environmental justice and sustainability. Their leadership and activism have been integral to the progress made in addressing climate change and combatting environmental racism. It is crucial to uplift and support the work of Black women in the climate movement, both to recognize their contributions and to create a more inclusive and equitable environmental movement. By amplifying the voices and leadership of Black women, we can work towards a more just and sustainable future for all.
