While environmentalism has often been portrayed as a cause for the wealthy, Black women have long been at the forefront of the conservationist movement. In recognition of Earth Day on April 22, 2024, ESSENCE magazine highlights five remarkable Black women who are paving the way towards a more sustainable future for our planet.
1. Savonala “Savi” Horne
Savonala “Savi” Horne, Executive Director of the Land Loss Prevention Project in North Carolina, assists limited-resource farmers and landowners through litigation, policy advocacy, and promoting sustainable agriculture practices. Horne believes every day should be celebrated as Earth Day to protect natural resources and ensure families have the security they need.
2. Lisa Perez Jackson
Lisa Perez Jackson made history as the first Black woman to lead the Environmental Protection Agency from 2009 to 2013. During her tenure, she prioritized action on climate change, improving air and water quality, assuring chemical safety, and advancing environmental justice. Jackson witnessed firsthand how pollution can ravage communities.
3. Rue Mapp
Rue Mapp founded the nonprofit Outdoor Afro in 2009, reconnecting Black communities with nature through a network of volunteer leaders across over 30 states. “The trees don’t know what color I am…nature can be the equalizer for us,” Mapp said.
4. Dr. Wangari Maathai
The late Dr. Wangari Maathai was the first African woman and environmental activist to receive the Nobel Peace Prize in 2004. As founder of the Green Belt Movement, she spearheaded the planting of over 51 million trees in Kenya to conserve the environment and empower women.
5. Peggy Shepard
Peggy Shepard, dubbed the “godmother of the environmental justice movement,” co-founded and leads WE ACT for Environmental Justice. She combines grassroots organizing and environmental advocacy to ensure urban communities like Northern Manhattan have access to a clean, sustainable environment.
These Black women are challenging norms and systemic barriers, uplifting the truth that environmental and climate justice is a civil rights issue that impacts us all.
