Her Voice, Our Environment: The Essential Role of Women of Colour in Environmental Justice

In every corner of the globe, we each carry unique narratives that weave together the fabric of our histories. Growing up in the lap of the Himalayas, my childhood was painted with the vibrant green hills and the rush of rivers. The environment was not merely a beautiful backdrop; it was woven into the very fabric of my identity. Growing up in a nation rich in ethnic diversity, conversations about unity despite our differences were a staple of our daily lives. This idea of unity in diversity became a cherished national emblem, deeply embedded in each of us as we matured. I’ve carried these teachings about the environment and diversity in my journey through a Canadian academic institution, and now, as I work in Canada's environmental sector, it is from this position that I want to reflect on the significance of representation and the inclusion of women of colour for Women’s History Month.

Women from across the world have long stood as custodians of the land, but often their stories go untold. Women of colour and women in the Global South are often at the forefront of environmental disasters, experiencing the worst of the impacts while also being incredibly resilient and adapting. There is so much to learn from them, with numerous examples of women taking charge of the governance and preservation of their natural resources, often employing peaceful methods. To illustrate this resilience and leadership, two key examples come to mind:

• A notable instance is the Chipko movement in India during the 1970s, where women actively fought to safeguard trees and forests targeted for government-sanctioned logging. This movement underscored the crucial yet frequently overlooked contributions of women in environmental conservation.
• Rachael Carson is another remarkable woman in the realm of environmental stewardship who inspired me deeply during my studies. Her 1962 book, "A Silent Spring," transformed chemists' practices by highlighting the environmental impacts of their work, laying the groundwork for modern green chemistry. The legacy of "Silent Spring" is evident in the field of sustainability and the growing public advocacy for environmental issues, emphasizing the importance of women's representation in the natural sciences.

While progress has been made within the environmental sector – in Canada, there is an increasing emphasis on inclusion and diversity initiatives – women, especially women of colour, remain at the margins and have their experience devalued. Many immigrants find themselves pressured to conform to the behaviours and values of native-born Canadians. This pressure stems from a desire to fit in and avoid being perceived as "other," especially if they do not sufficiently resemble the so-called "Canadian majority." It seems that the rhetoric of inclusivity does not translate into meaningful action.

In my past experience, a bureaucratic approach to diversity efforts often focuses on metrics, audits, and public perception, resulting in a superficial, 'tick-box' approach rather than real inclusivity. Diversity should not merely serve as a cosmetic enhancement for businesses; it demands genuine empathy and a deep understanding of individuals' lived experiences. It is taking time to reflect and understand the emotional labour associated with people of colour being asked to write about diversity instead of their white colleagues. It is about trust, acknowledgement, and integration of the expertise and lived experiences of marginalized women and their way of seeing. Simply hiring for diversity does not make a business diverse.

Women of colour often bear the brunt of unjust policies due to their intersecting marginalized identities related to race and gender. This dual burden forces them to navigate unfair systems, frequently without recognition for their struggles and leadership. The belief that women are naturally more inclined towards "nature" work due to biological or emotional ties to the environment can oversimplify and misrepresent their capabilities. While many women do have profound connections with nature, such views can overlook the extensive ecological knowledge and skills they bring to the table. Women are taking on leadership roles in areas like environmental science, conservation, and sustainable agriculture, showcasing the expertise that stems from thorough education and hands-on experience rather than gender-based assumptions. And, for people of colour, especially women, the convergence of their various identities introduces a layer of complexity that is frequently ignored in workplace policies.

In addition to the practices outlined above, intersectionality serves as a powerful framework for examining the sources and interactions of power, revealing how they overlap and influence one another. Thus, advancing women's rights and voices within the environmental sector requires an intersectional approach; feminism that solely reflects the experiences of white, able-bodied, heterosexual women will inevitably fall short of achieving true equality for everyone.

A deep understanding of justice is crucial for achieving gender equality and the gendered nature-society relationship. Analyzing power dynamics in historical and socio-political contexts is essential. Feminist political ecology is another lens through which we can see how women can be integrated into male-dominated institutions while exploring how gender intersects with class, race, and other power structures affecting access to natural resources. Embracing diversity means acknowledging this reality and creating opportunities for all; it means talking about justice, integrating ability and accessibility, and valuing the voices and experiences of people of colour.

Together, we can pave the way for a more inclusive future where every woman’s lens is valued in the fight for a sustainable world. Everyone is welcome to join this conversation. Here are some key points to consider:

The journey towards inclusivity in the environmental sector is not just about representation; it’s about valuing the diverse narratives and expertise that women of colour bring to the table. True inclusivity is harnessing the full potential of diverse voices, particularly those of women of colour. By embracing intersectionality and recognizing the richness of various perspectives, we can collectively work towards a sustainable world that honours and empowers everyone. Together, we can make meaningful change and pave the way for future generations.