Quotes from Black Environmental Leaders that will Inspire You

Although many more Americans are exploring our national parks and public lands than ever before, an ever-widening diversity gap exists when it comes to who has access to the outdoors. Data shows that people of color are far less likely to take part in nature-based activities such as visiting state and national parks. In order to help raise awareness of this issue and promote a more inclusive outdoors, we are sharing inspirational quotes from some Black Environmental Leaders who are doing amazing work for conservation, equitable access to the outdoors, and environmental justice.  

To learn about more leaders and about organizations working on environmental justice and who help to make access to nature and the outdoors more equitable, please see these lists compiled by our friends at Engage Globally:

Environmental organizations with a focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion and  Environmental leaders from underrepresented communities

"It’s time to be clear about this misconception that environmental issues are incompatible with civil rights issues. The truth is that environmental issues are civil rights issues." - Lisa P Jackson
"There’s a lack of awareness within the African-American community about national parks in general, so, the only pathway that I could find or even envision that would pull African-Americans into the wilderness is a history where African-Americans are in the wilderness." - Shelton Johnson
“I haven’t met a challenge yet that I don’t think people standing together empowered by information and strategy and mobilization can’t defeat.” - Vernice Miller
"As you walk, look around, assess where you are, reflect on where you have been, and dream of where you are going. Every moment of the present contains the seeds of opportunity for change. Your life is an adventure. Live it fully." - Dr. John Fransis
"I told my mother, (I wanted to be a Forest Ranger) she asked me, "Is there anybody in that field that looks like us?" I said, "I don't know of any but I believe that there is." And it wasn't until later on in my career that I found out what role I was going to play in helping that image come to be." - Chip Cartwright
"Every day, I complain, protest, and object, but it takes such vigilance and activism to keep legislators on their toes and government accountable to the people on environmental issues."- Hazel Johnson
"People should have the power to be a part of the decision-making process about what foods they have to offer to their families." - Tanya Fields

We hope you found some inspiration through these quotes and that you will share your favorites on your social media! 

With love, Aleah

One Comment

  1. We need more public awareness, on this topic. Good subject of interest. Thank you Aleah. Janet Spence

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *