03/13/2025
I had the opportunity to lead some dope work on behalf of Emerald Cities Collaborative, supporting the Environmental Justice Thriving Communities Grantmaking Program (EJ TCGMP)—a transformative initiative funded by the Inflation Reduction Act to distribute $600 million to under-resourced communities impacted by environmental injustices.
With the support of my good sis Shanim Parker, I convened an interdisciplinary Advisory Council in Washington, D.C., bringing together POWERHOUSE policymakers, grassroots organizers, environmental justice leaders, foundation representatives, and economic development experts. By the end of the week, this group built governance structures, shaped an equitable grantmaking process, and created a framework to ensure that historically underfunded organizations leading environmental justice efforts can access critical resources.
Most of all, we built deep relationships while having fun! (My specialty)
True environmental justice is about repairing the harm done to frontline communities, ensuring that those most affected by climate change and environmental degradation have access to the resources needed to build sustainable futures.
The organizations at the forefront of this work are often underfunded, despite being the first responders to climate disasters and systemic environmental injustices. This kind of investment is not just about equity—it’s about survival.
My favorite projects are high impact and interdisciplinary. Let’s keep building! ✨