Federal Retreat on Climate Pushes California’s Black Leaders to Lead the Fight

A peculiar phase in the climate justice movement is unfolding nationwide. Earlier this year, the Trump administration eliminated several vital climate and equity programs, prompting community organizations to scramble amidst the rollback of federal environmental justice grants.Nevertheless, many Black-led groups in Sacramento assert that their efforts remain ongoing, largely unaffected by these federal decisions.Faye Wilson Kennedy, a key member of the Red Black and Green Environmental Justice Coalition, stated, “We don’t rely on federal funding. Had we done so, the dismantling of the EPA would have impacted us.” California’s robust state EPA and health systems have insulated these organizations.Conversely, grassroots initiatives in states like Louisiana, Texas, and Mississippi, reliant on federal support, faced severe setbacks.California's climate infrastructure has flourished over two decades, advancing beyond federal measures. Sacramento’s community groups benefit from state initiatives and regional partnerships, allowing them to thrive independently. As Jonathan K. London from UC Davis warns, California may soon face threats to its climate policies with shifting national attitudes. Collaboration among climate organizations, he emphasizes, remains crucial to navigating these turbulent times.