As we celebrate Black History Month, I’ve been reflecting on the importance of representation in the environmental justice movement. Growing up, I didn’t often see people who looked like me leading the charge for environmental change. When I thought about environmentalism, I pictured “tree hugging” activists working on climate change or advocating for cleaner air and water—but rarely did I see Black voices in those conversations.
While being on the DoneGood team, I’ve learned that caring for our environment is about more than just making ethical and sustainable choices—it’s about fighting systemic injustice. Black individuals have been pushing for a more equitable and sustainable future long before it became a mainstream topic. Leaders fought not only for environmental protection but for the rights and well-being of marginalized communities who have been unfairly impacted by pollution, climate change, and industrial practices.
While thinking about my own journey, I’ve realized how much it would’ve meant to see people who looked like me in these spaces earlier on. When you see others who share your experiences, it empowers you to step into that role yourself. Black History Month serves as a reminder of the importance of recognizing the leaders of the past and present, and their ongoing contributions to environmental justice.
Here are 6 Black leaders in environmental justice you should know about
1. MaVynee “The Beach Lady” Betsch
Mavynee left her opera career to preserve American Beach that was created by her great-grandfather, Florida’s first Black millionaire, when beaches were White-only. Learn more about The Beach Lady
Image from Nasty Women Writers
2. Hazel Johsnon, “Mother of Environmental Justice”
Hazel discovered that the high cancer rates in adults and respiratory issues in children in her South Side Chicago community, was caused by a toxic landfill. Johnson founded the People for Community initiative to educate her neighbors on the issue and to hold businesses and government officials accountable for their actions. Learn more about Hazel
3. Dr. Robert Bullard, “The Father of Environmental Justice”
Dr. Bullard is a Marine Corps veteran and award winning author of 18 (yes, EIGHTEEN!) books. In the 80s, he launched a national study to prove that toxic waste sites were mostly found in predominantly Black neighborhoods. The study, Solid Waste Sites and the Black Houston Community, was the first comprehensive account of eco-racism in the United States. Learn more about Dr. Bullard
Image from Bullard Center For Environmental & Climate Justice
4. Vanessa Nakate
Vanessa is a climate justice activist who started her own movement in Uganda. Vanessa was the only protester outside the gates of Parliament of Uganda fighting for the Congo rainforest for months before being joined by other young people. Learn more about Vanessa
Image from Photograph by REUTERS / Alamy
5. Bryant Terry
Bryant is a James Beard Award winning chef and food justice activist, uses food for political change and community building. His work highlights the importance of a healthy sustainable food system and on the connections between poverty, structural racism and food security. Learn more about Bryant
Image from Melissa Leigh on Pittnews.com
"Their work reminds us that environmental activism isn’t just about saving the planet—it’s about saving people."
These are just a few of the many voices that have challenged systems of inequality and advocated for healthier, more sustainable communities. Their work reminds us that environmental activism isn’t just about saving the planet—it’s about saving people. Let’s continue to uplift and support Black leaders who are shaping the future of environmental justice and ensure their contributions are recognized and practiced year-round - whether it’s in a classroom or in our everyday activities.
We can work towards a more sustainable world for everyone.
Learn more about Black History Month: History.com
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