Ways to Take Action
Spread the Word
It may seem small, but many climate experts agree that talking about climate change is one of the most important things we can do to address it. Conversations help us connect with others to realign our actions with what we truly care about. You don’t have to be an expert, either. If you’re new to talking about climate justice, you’re far from alone! You can start by sharing a thought or question sparked by something in the exhibition. With each conversation, we build momentum for change.
HOW TO DO IT
Talk with your friends, family, classmates, and neighbors about how people are unequally impacted by climate change. Consider people’s experiences across NYC, the US, and the globe. Or talk about the need for justice in the transition to clean, renewable energy.
Talk about what you learned in this exhibition, what surprised you, what sparked curiosity, what actions you want to take, or how your perspective on climate has changed.
Remember that people are increasingly supportive of climate justice policies, even if they don’t feel confident about what the term “climate justice” means. 66% of Americans support a Green New Deal. 77% favor stronger enforcement of pollution limits in overburdened communities and 70% favor increasing federal funding to these communities. 69% favor transitioning the US economy from fossil fuels to 100% clean energy by 2050. Share these statistics with your friends and make it known how popular these ideas are. We are part of the supermajority for climate justice!
Embrace digital community building: post about climate justice on social media to start conversations.
For more information on climate justice, check out the Climate Justice Alliance. For more on environmental justice in New York, check out the NYC Environmental Justice Alliance, WE ACT for Environmental Justice, and NY Renews. (See below for links to their websites!)
Listen to what others have to say, especially if you’re talking to a seasoned climate justice advocate. Many Black, brown, Indigenous and low-income white communities have been fighting for climate justice for decades. All of us should champion this work and platform these voices as we learn from their experiences.
For more on the Climate Justice Alliance →
For more on the NYC Environmental Justice Alliance →