Happy Black History Month! Today I am thrilled to highlight and honor the vital work of African-American leaders advocating for the healing of our earth.
Here are ten black environmentalists to celebrate. While each of their contributions to a more sustainable earth deserves praise, there are three incredible women whose work I want to spotlight. These contemporary women promote nature, sustainability, and a healthy planet for all.
Each of their contributions are rooted in personal passions and experience. And, frankly, in sectors that are typically white-male dominated: energy, farming, and outdoor adventure, making their voice imperative.
I’ve come across each of their work in various ways. And, each of their stories struck me as inspiring to say the least.
Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson
I found Dr. Johnson on Twitter many years ago. I’ve enjoyed following her takes in 160 characters or less among her other works, like her Podcast, ‘How to Save a Planet.‘ If you have a chance, I particularly loved her interview with Dr. Jane Goodall. What a duo!
She’s a marine biologist, policy expert, writer, and all around incredibly accomplished. Also, among her other areas of expertise, she sits on several Boards, including Patagonia’s Board of Directors, the company most famous for making planet earth its only shareholder.
She’s had several writing pieces published by top news channels. And, she invented an award-winning fish trap to reduce bycatch, the unwanted fish, and marine creatures caught during commercial fishing. Umm, hello inventor for good!
Dr. Johnson, we’re forever indebted to your powerful contribution to a more sustainable planet earth.
Rue Mapp
I first came across Rue and her work featured in an outdoor magazine. In 2009, she founded the nonprofit Outdoor Afro to celebrate African Americans’ connection to nature and to develop leadership in exploration spaces. Today, the organization has chapters in 30 states! Outdoor Afro also has 80 leaders who guide members through nature tours and other recreational activities.
I love love love the mission of Outdoor Afro. Being outdoors feels like home. I grew up hiking and camping in the forests of CA. I skip rocks like a pro, cook a solid meal on an open fire, and don’t shy away from a week of no-shower showers. Although, I will say, that first hot shower back is golden. My dad and I backpacked Mt. Whitney (the highest point in the continental US) when I was 20. There is just nothing like the majesty of the great outdoors and our National Parks. And, it should be accessible to everyone.
Rue’s nationwide programs equip leaders to guide their communities to enjoy all the land and water has to offer. Her dedication to Black leadership in the outdoor space, where there is a lack of representation, is invaluable.
Rue is hosting her own Black History Month celebration, honoring a different Black nature activist each week. I’m excited to learn from her and follow along her journey.
Leah Penniman
I first learned about Leah’s (all pronouns) work, after being featured on a Podcast for his/her/them/they’s expertise on our food system and regenerative farming.
Leah is a food justice activist, leader, Farm Director at Soul Fire Farm. Leah is also the author of the book “Farming While Black.”
Leah’s mission is to help African Americans connect with the land and our food system to resolve racism within the food system.
Leah’s work at Soul Fire Farm provides farm training for Black and Brown people. They also provide a food subsidy program for communities living under unequal access to healthy foods and lack of opportunity to grow their food. And, the Farm offers community farm days, youth programs, farm tours, and urban farming solutions to surrounding areas of their community.
I’m looking to Leah as a valuable resource as I learn more about regenerative farming and our food system.
I’m forever indebted to the tireless work of these three women, we all are. I’m grateful for the incredible opportunity to learn from them and celebrate them.
I hope you enjoyed these highlights. How are you celebrating Black History Month and please share some of your black climate heroes in the comments!
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