In This Together: Climate Crisis, Equality, and You
By Ketcia Peters
Thursday 24 August 2023
As an advocate for racial equality and a leader within the black community, I’m deeply committed to issues that intersect and affect our lives. Today, let’s talk about something that affects us all, whether we realize it or not: the Climate Crisis.
The urgency is crystal clear. This isn’t just about words; it’s about action. Calling it a “Crisis” isn’t just a label – it’s a call to arms that demands our immediate attention. It’s about acknowledging the imminent danger we face, and it’s time we all come together.
But here’s the catch: downplaying the Climate Crisis has far-reaching consequences, especially for underprivileged communities and non-white individuals. When we brush it aside, we’re perpetuating an unfair cycle that hits people like us the hardest.
Recent discussions and research show a direct link between climate issues and racial disparities. Groups like Just Stop Oil have taken bold steps, demanding change and action.
Yet, there’s a gap between activists and politicians on how to tackle this pressing issue.
Studies reveal a striking difference in language used by these groups. Activists advocate for ecological and social justice, stressing the urgent need for change and human accountability, yes, but human rights mainly.
On the flip side, politicians often zoom in on industry, finance, and the economy, sometimes missing the humanity aspect entirely.
And that’s not to say that industries and finance are not important for us humans. They are. Of course, they are.
But such importance comes with even greater accountability and responsibility. They were (and are) the greater part of the problem. Thinking about them, talking about them without chastising them for what they did, and do, is simply wrong. And, to some extent, racist as well.
Energy scarcity, strong markets and other bullshit are not good-enough excuses to blatantly downplay the issue.
It’s a crisis: we should act like it.
And perhaps mention the people as people in the meantime, not as “bill-payers”.
This divide translates into real consequences.
Communities of colour often bear the brunt of environmental hazards, leading to respiratory illnesses and other health challenges. Indigenous peoples, the guardians of precious ecosystems, face encroachments that endanger their lands and ways of life.
Let’s say it loud and clear: Climate Justice is Racial Justice.
Now, your voice matters. An upcoming vote on Bill C-226, the Environmental Racism Prevention Act, is our chance to make a stand. This bill paves the way for environmental justice and assesses the impacts of environmental racism.
By acknowledging the Climate Crisis as an actual crisis, we’re advocating for the well-being of everyone.
Let’s talk about that together, amplify our voices, and ensure justice remains at the heart of every conversation.
#ClimateJustice #RacialEquality #EnvRacismBillC226 #ActNow #CommunityPower #OurFuture #UnitedForChange**
Remember, together we hold the power to shape a better world. Let’s take action today for a brighter, more just tomorrow.
[DISCLAIMER: This post aims to express shared values and concerns, and it is not a direct endorsement of any political figure or party. Although, a certain liking must be acknowledged.]
Ketcia Peters is an entrepreneur and community advocate for economic inclusion and development for Black Canadians and the social justice sector. Her firm, Ketcia Peters Group Inc. (KPG) provides bilingual organizational and human development services to the public and private sector. This includes analysis and coaching of HR practices, strategic planning, organizational change, equity and inclusivity, and anti-racism. KPG also provides individual and group coaching. In recent years, KP Group Inc. has shifted to greatly expand its equity, diversity and inclusivity work at the municipal and community level, with a focus on anti-racism and anti-oppression. This work centers on a trauma-informed approach in order to ensure we do not cause further harm to those most marginalized in our communities. Visit her website at: https://ketciapeters.com/