Latino Voices in Environmental Justice

Advocating for equitable access to clean air, water, and land.

Whoosh.

Whoosh.

Hear that?

A powerful wave of change is crashing against the shores of injustice – and it’s led by a group of resilient and passionate Latino activists who refuse to let their communities bear the brunt of environmental degradation any longer. These unsung heroes are rewriting the narrative, challenging the status quo, and championing the cause of environmental justice with an unwavering determination.

Here are just a few I think you should know:

1. Dolores Huerta - The Farmworkers’ Champion

Dolores Huerta, co-founder of the United Farm Workers (UFW), has been a relentless force in the battle for social and environmental justice. With unwavering determination, she has led campaigns to improve working conditions and secure fair wages for farmworkers, whose labor sustains the nation’s agricultural industry. Huerta's advocacy extends beyond the fields; she is a staunch defender of environmental rights, recognizing the interconnectedness between human dignity and the health of the planet.

2. Mark Magaña - The Bridge Builder

Mark Magaña, a visionary leader and the co-founder of GreenLatinos, stands at the forefront of the environmental justice movement. A skilled bridge builder, Magaña connects the dots between environmental issues and social justice, recognizing the disproportionate impact that pollution and climate change have on marginalized Latino communities. Through GreenLatinos, Magaña mobilizes a network of activists to advocate for equitable policies that address the intersectionality of environmental and social challenges.

3. Elizabeth Yeampierre - The Frontline Warrior

Elizabeth Yeampierre, the executive director of UPROSE, is a force to be reckoned with. As a lifelong Brooklyn resident and an ardent environmental justice advocate, Boricua Yeampierre is dedicated to empowering frontline communities. UPROSE focuses on grassroots organizing, sustainable development, and community resilience, proving that the fight for environmental justice is as much about people as it is about the planet. Yeampierre’s work is a testament to the belief that no one knows a community’s needs better than the community itself.

4. Jose Bravo - The Toxics Avenger

Jose Bravo, the executive director of the Just Transition Alliance, is on a mission to tackle toxic pollution head-on. Recognizing that vulnerable communities often become dumping grounds for hazardous waste, Bravo is a champion for a just transition away from harmful industries. His work focuses on creating sustainable, green economies that prioritize the health and well-being of Latino communities, proving that environmental justice goes hand-in-hand with economic justice.

5. Marcela Olivera - The Water Guardian

Marcela Olivera, a passionate advocate for water rights and environmental justice, stands as a beacon of hope for marginalized communities across Latin America. As a prominent figure in the struggle against water privatization, Olivera has dedicated her life to ensuring access to clean water for all. Through her tireless efforts, she empowers communities to assert their rights and resist corporate exploitation of natural resources.

These Latino activists and community leaders are the heartbeat of the environmental justice movement, bringing passion, resilience, and a deep sense of justice to the forefront. And these people are just a few examples! As they pave the way for a more equitable and sustainable future, their voices inspire others to join the fight for a world where no community is left behind in the pursuit of a healthier, greener planet.