Remembering Juneteenth: A Call to Action for DEIJ in Conservation

“Nobody’s free until everybody’s free.”—Fannie Lou Hamer, U.S. Civil Rights Leader

As The Nature Conservancy ’s Global Chief Diversity, Equity & Inclusion Officer, I have the privilege of working with colleagues who recognize Juneteenth not just for its historic significance but as a modern-day call to action. Conservationists know firsthand the disproportionate impacts of climate change on BIPOC communities across the U.S. and around the world.

We also know modern conservation efforts have been historically marred by racial injustice. Protected lands in the U.S. were often established through the displacement of Indigenous Peoples and the exclusion of communities of color. For instance, the creation of national parks like Yellowstone involved the rejection of Native American tribe’s land rights and often their forced removal from their ancestral lands. These injustices have created enduring disparities in access to nature, environmental benefits, and decision making processes.

For these reasons and more, Juneteenth serves as a powerful reminder that freedom must extend to all aspects of life, including environmental stewardship. Working at the intersection of conservation and community, we remain undeterred by growing attacks on organizational DEIJ. We commemorate the emancipation of enslaved African Americans by challenging global systems of oppression and demanding environmental justice for all.

Starting at Home

Our commitment to DEIJ starts at TNC’s headquarters in Arlington, Virginia, where we acknowledge past and ongoing harms and recognize the vast contributions of African Americans in conservation work past, present, and future. For example, John Francis, also known as the "Planetwalker," is a notable African American environmentalist who has inspired many through his silent walking pilgrimage to promote environmental awareness.

But recognition is not enough. We must actively work to center BIPOC communities in conservation by creating pathways for underrepresented individuals to enter and thrive in environmental careers. Internships, scholarships, mentorship programs, and leadership training tailored for communities of color are essential steps in this direction. TNC’s Leaders of Color program, for one example, is designed to provide comprehensive support and development opportunities for BIPOC staff. Meanwhile, TNC’s Oak Tree Fellowship delivers immersive experiences to help next-gen leaders from underrepresented backgrounds hone the skills and network necessary to advance in conservation careers.

Empowering Communities

From the hazardous waste facilities predominantly located in lower social economic status, Black, and Brown neighborhoods across the U.S., to the unfair treatment of Indigenous women in coastal Ecuador, historically conservation is deeply intertwined with the legacy of slavery and systemic racism. Our strategies must prioritize these underserved communities, ensuring they have the resources and support to combat environmental challenges and thrive in a sustainable future.

Community engagement is critical in this fight. Conservation efforts are most successful when they are collaborative, incorporating the knowledge and needs of local communities. In the Chesapeake Bay region, for example, TNC has partnered with local Black farmers to restore wetlands, demonstrating how integrating local expertise can lead to successful conservation outcomes. We must build genuine partnerships with communities of color, listening to their experiences and integrating their wisdom into our initiatives. This approach enhances effective conservation efforts while fostering trust and solidarity. ?

Rethinking Global Conservation

?Finally, as we celebrate Juneteenth, we must advocate for policies that promote environmental justice. This includes supporting legislation aimed at reducing pollution in marginalized communities, increasing green spaces in urban areas, and ensuring equitable access to clean air, water, and natural resources. The Environmental Justice for All Act is a crucial piece of legislation that addresses these issues directly. Our advocacy must extend to supporting broader civil rights issues, recognizing that social justice and environmental justice are inseparable.

Juneteenth is a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for freedom and justice. As conservationists, we have a responsibility to ensure that our work contributes to this struggle, addressing the inequities that have long plagued our field. By embracing diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice, we can build a conservation movement that honors the legacy of Juneteenth and works towards a future where all communities can thrive in harmony with nature. Let this day inspire us to action, renewing our commitment to a more just and inclusive world.