Climate workshops – elevating marginalized voices

Hosted By: Lily Y.

Project for Ages: 5 to 19 Years

Project Categories:

• Environmental Education
• Inclusive Leadership
• Youth empowerment

Project Summary:

Sustainable Education for a More Inclusive Future is a workshop for elementary students, focusing on the science of climate change, and its local impacts, and spotlighting the power of diverse voices in shaping solutions. The program will work towards consensus building, helping young people learn to collaborate. Through interactive games, knowledge sharing with Indigenous leaders, and activities that highlight the history of BIPOC and women scientists students will gain a holistic understanding of climate change. The program will culminate in a collaborative art project, where students will make a picture book, showcasing innovative climate solutions and they are the future leaders.

Addressing Community Needs:

There is a noticeable gap in environmental education at the elementary level, which can lead to climate apathy as students grow. Young learners must understand climate change and environmental stewardship to develop a sense of responsibility for their surroundings. By illustrating the direct impacts of climate change on local communities, this workshop helps students grasp complex global issues within the familiar context of their neighborhoods. The integration of stories from Indigenous leaders and the spotlight on BIPOC and female environmental heroes allows students to find inspiration and potentially see reflections of themselves in these exemplary figures. Given the predominance of cis white men in STEM fields, it can be challenging for students from diverse backgrounds to find role models who share their identity. This workshop addresses this challenge by teaching students to appreciate a variety of perspectives and acknowledge the valuable contributions of all community members to science and environmentalism.