John,
One thing about climate change – it impacts everybody. But climate change has a disproportionate impact on Black and African communities on a global scale compared to other demographics.
This is by design.
Here's a fact: Africa is home to 15% of the world's population, and yet, is face to face with the brunt of the climate crisis – with deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and droughts running rampant.
Climate change has also impacted Black people in the diaspora in many ways – from loss of homes and livelihoods due to natural disasters to the impacts of pollution on our physical health.
We have to address these issues and work toward a sustainable future for Black communities everywhere.
On a global scale, Africa has the lowest impact on climate change, and yet African countries are among the most vulnerable to its impacts.
Addressing the climate crisis that Africa is facing also requires a mindful approach that takes into account the social, economic, and political factors that contribute to the problem. It requires the participation of everybody to combat it – including governments, social organizations, and businesses invested in these nations.
The foundation of the diaspora could suffer irreversible damage if we hesitate to make changes now.
Today, we are living between the intersection of imagining a liberated future for ALL Black people and protecting the earth that the diaspora thrives on. We're also up against many man-made issues of environmental injustice in Africa and our diasporic communities, from pollution and toxic waste dumping to deforestation and habitat destruction.
A part of our liberation work means a commitment to a sustainable future that is focused on the nurturing of our environments.
It's time for us to truly reimagine what it means for Black people to thrive. So, together, let's continue to remember that Black lives can't matter unless ALL Black Lives Matter everywhere.
John, Every day that we don't act, the damage from the climate crisis becomes more irreversible. Despite these challenges, our commitment is unwavering. We're working towards a more just and equitable world -- so please, chip in $5 or whatever you can to help fuel our global liberation efforts.
In love and solidarity,
Black Lives Matter Global Network Foundation
