Women have long been on the front lines of the fight for social and environmental justice. From protecting indigenous sovereignty to fighting for gender equality, transgender rights, food security, or climate and racial justice, women are tirelessly resisting oppression and promoting peace around the world. We are driving solutions. We know that climate change is not a fair issue for everyone. And gender imbalances in decision-making can exacerbate the problem, leading to decisions that take less account of what women and sexual minorities have to offer: their needs, skills, and insights. And guess what? They are also the people hardest hit by climate change.
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As a mother and a Greenpeace organizer, I often find myself watching the world's struggles with a mixture of exhaustion and determination. These challenges can make it difficult to even imagine a peaceful future for our children. Still, I am steadily regaining inspiration and am grateful for the caring people around me who demand and push for improvement. Whether it's a small step or a giant leap, each action strengthens our collective power. I try to instill this value in my children and hope that one day they will witness and understand this value as they travel the world.
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Today is International Women's Day. We'd like to spotlight some of the dedicated activists we have the privilege of working with here in Toronto. This is just a small (yet powerful!) sample of a large network of outstanding Greenpeace women.
As we reflect on progress made in the fight against gender-based marginalization and exploitation of nature, it is also important to recognize the work ahead. Looking ahead to the next 10 years, women around the world have big dreams for the future of women and the planet. They will break down gender norms, destroy oppressive systems that hold people down, and ensure that everyone has the same opportunity to thrive on a healthy planet, regardless of gender, race, or where they live. I'm talking about. It is wonderful?!
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Each of these activists has their own unique journey to Greenpeace and the environmental movement. Their motivations are as diverse as their backgrounds: a love of nature, a deep-rooted passion for social justice, and a burning desire to protect the planet for future generations.
Here’s what these women had to say…
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cod
“I grew up in Trinidad, a Caribbean island prone to extreme weather. Hurricanes occur every year in the Caribbean, but now they are occurring more frequently and becoming more powerful. There is no place to escape a hurricane. Therefore, I am determined to fight not only for the Caribbean, but for all residents living in regions at risk of climate disaster.
What first drew me to Greenpeace was the incredible change we make in the world. But what impresses me most is the very strong duty of care we have towards our volunteers. I myself volunteer with various groups and it's important to me that I feel fully supported when giving generously of my time, energy and dedication. And Greenpeace is setting a high bar for this. We love our volunteers and don't take them for granted.
I want women to stop feeling guilty for not doing more as individuals to live a greener lifestyle. Maybe you need to use plastic, or maybe you need to drive a gas car. Or maybe you can't recycle it…and that will make you feel guilty. Please stop! We must not forget who the real culprits are: the fossil fuel companies and their financiers, especially Canada's Big Five banks. Shifting the narrative to personal responsibility (and guilt) is something these perpetrators are very good at. Let's not agree to their brainwashing. Shift your energy away from personal guilt and direct it to action against those who continue to destroy our planet while illegally profiting from it. ”
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Ann
“I came of age in Australia at a time of activist success. Tree sitters were saving old-growth rainforests from logging, Australia’s indigenous peoples were gaining greater land rights, and government policy was The use of dangerous chemicals that were punching holes in the ozone layer was banned.As people who have experienced multifaceted racism along racial, gender, and class lines, many different types of people It seemed like a time when we were united for a common good. Now we're in a very different time. The world is more polarized than ever, but I still feel like we I remain optimistic that we can come together again because I have seen it happen and I know what can be achieved when it does. I look forward to joining a movement where women unite rather than divide, as we share more than our shared experiences.”
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silvia
“My commitment to the environmental movement began with the simple recognition that our planet is in danger and it is up to each of us to do our part to protect it. Greenpeace has provided me with a platform and community to amplify my voice and make a tangible difference in the fight for a more sustainable future. We look forward to greater inclusion and empowerment. By promoting diversity and inclusion, we maximize the potential of our collective efforts to address the pressing environmental challenges we face. You can pull it out.”
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hannah
“I was brought to Greenpeace when I was looking for a fight worth joining in the wake of various climate changes in 2023. I have wanted to do something about the environment for years. However, there are many people in my family who are against climate change, and frankly I didn't know where to start. On International Women's Day 2024, I would like to honor the victims of sexual violence during the Israel-Hamas war. We hope for more recognition and support for (women and children, Israelis and Palestinians).”
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So on International Women's Day 2024, let's celebrate the resilience, courage and determination of women around the world who continue to lead the way towards a more joyful world based on a healthier and more livable relationship with our planet .
We need you and we appreciate you!
“Nothing in nature exists alone.”
rachel carson