As we celebrate Black History Month, the Kentucky Association for Environmental Education (KAEE) reflects on the powerful contributions of Black individuals to the environmental movement. From pioneers like Dr. Robert Bullard, the "father of environmental justice," to today’s grassroots advocates, Black communities have long fought for equitable access to healthy, sustainable environments. This month, we honor those legacies and explore how KAEE’s work in environmental education intersects with social justice and sustainability.
Honoring Black Environmental Leaders
Black leaders have made lasting impacts on environmental justice. Dr. Bullard’s efforts to address environmental racism have paved the way for conversations about the intersection of race, class, and the environment. In Kentucky, we also recognize the contributions of figures like Benjamin L. Hooks, who advocated for environmental justice as part of the broader civil rights movement.
By celebrating these figures, we remind ourselves of the importance of inclusivity in the environmental movement, ensuring that all communities have a voice in shaping policies and practices.
Environmental Education for All
At KAEE, we believe environmental education should be accessible to everyone. Through our programs, we aim to empower communities. Understanding the historical and cultural connections between Black communities and the environment fosters a deeper connection to nature and inspires sustainable practices rooted in tradition.
One way we are fostering inclusivity is through our Environmental Education (EE) Community of Practice (CoP). The CoP is a learning community for environmental educators to come together, learn, and grow, ensuring we improve our programs to better serve all communities. The CoP meets bi-monthly to dive deep into various topics, hear from guest speakers, and grow as a collective. It’s an opportunity for educators to collaborate and share insights on creating more inclusive and equitable environmental education.
KAEE’s Commitment to Diversity
Through our CoP, we’re committed to making environmental education more inclusive. We believe that education is a tool for empowerment, and we work to ensure all communities have access to the knowledge needed to thrive and protect the planet. By partnering with local organizations and offering resources that reflect diverse experiences, KAEE strengthens the connection between environmental education and social justice.