John, it's Yeishka. I'm the chapter organizer with Sunrise Movement.

I just got back from one of the most transformative experiences I’ve had in this movement.

Last week, over 50 young Black, Latine, and Indigenous organizers came together for our first-ever Sunrise caucus gathering—a space created to center the voices, stories, and leadership of those most impacted by the climate crisis. This gathering was about more than strategy—it was about building community, honoring our histories, and grounding ourselves in the power of our people as we fight for climate justice.

Will you chip in to help us do this again—and bring even more people in?

We shared stories—about our families, our roots, the places that shaped us, and the journeys that brought us into this movement. We laughed, danced, sang, and held space for each other’s pain and joy. We built a place where we could be fully ourselves—without needing to explain who we are or why we fight. 

Our weekend started with Hollow Tree, a moving documentary directed by Kira Akerman, about three young girls navigating the climate crisis in Louisiana. Their experiences felt deeply familiar—reflecting challenges many of us have faced in our own neighborhoods. We then sat with leaders from New Orleans and the Gulf South - Sharon Lavigne from Rise St. James, Pastor Gregory Manning from the Greater New Orleans Interfaith Climate Coalition, Gracey from Union Migrante, and others – who spoke honestly about toxic legacies and the ongoing battle to defend their communities. When we visited Saint John the Baptist Parish in Cancer Alley, it was impossible not to feel the weight of decades of environmental racism—and the strength of the people who refuse to back down. We heard first hand from Tish with Concerned Citizens of St John – their courage in the face of relentless corporate and environmental harm was a powerful reminder of why this movement exists and why we must continue to stand alongside them.

Creating a space like this took deep care and intention. We made sure people were fed, housed, supported, and able to be fully present—and that kind of organizing takes resources. If we want to keep building spaces that truly honor and uplift youth of color in this movement, we need a community behind us who believes it’s worth investing in.

You are a critical part of that community. Will you support organizing like this by chipping in today?

I’ve seen firsthand how deeply resourced, identity-affirming space can grow the leadership of young people who are often asked to carry the heaviest burdens of the climate crisis. This work is essential—not just for justice, but for the survival and strength of our whole movement.

If you’ve ever believed in building a movement where everyone belongs and leads—this is your chance to make it real.

Donate now 

With love and fire,

Yeishka