How do class, appropriation, and privilege intersect with the current model of environmentalism?
I think the current model of environmentalism doesn't factor in class, appropriation, and privilege enough. Unfortunately the current environmentalism that we have today has led to many BIPOC facing the brunt of climate injustice which is inherently unjust. Those on the receiving end of privilege are more likely to develop a beautiful relationship with nature, which is incredibly unfair. Mother Nature should be for us all.
How can environmentalism become more inclusive for Black, US Indigenous, Latinx, and other non-white communities who are most directly affected by climate change and environmental abuses?
It can acknowledge the data that clearly states BIPOC currently face environmental injustices disproportionately and make the conversation of intersectionality standard in all environmental settings. I think environmentalists have been able to ignore social justice in context to environmentalism because it's been framed as an optional "add-on" when really it is just as essential as conservation, energy, or recycling.
Tracing back, who in your life influenced your interest in environmentalism? What lessons did they instill?
I've honestly just always loved animals and ecology: my grandma would take us out camping in a cabin and I'd visit my grandfathers rural house in Arkansas for some holidays. I didn't do traditional "outdoorsy things" like skiing or hiking, but I spent a lot of my time outside in nature with my family, even if that meant in our own backyard or watching the sunset on my grandmother's roof. My grandmother is a Buddhist, and believes in the interconnectedness of all things... that likely rubbed off on me.
