Climate change impacts different communities unevenly. Those most affected often lead the charge for solutions.
Across the U.S., Black leaders are taking significant steps toward climate resilience. They focus on community-driven approaches, challenging long-standing systems that unfairly burden marginalized groups. These leaders include scientists, activists, and policymakers, all striving to weave equity, health, and justice into their efforts.
This Black History Month, we celebrate five remarkable individuals who unite climate action with racial equity. Their work covers a range of areas—like clean energy access and public health—united by the belief that affected communities should be at the forefront of the change.
Melanie Allen, CEO, Hive Fund for Climate and Gender Justice
Melanie Allen leads the Hive Fund, focusing on philanthropy that addresses climate justice. With two decades in non-profit work, she emphasizes the importance of involving those most impacted by policies in decision-making processes. Before co-founding Hive in 2019, she helped launch an energy equity initiative in South Carolina.
Her advice to her younger self? Every step in life contributes to your journey. The connections you make may not always seem clear, but they become evident over time. Her experiences in public health shaped her belief that personal stories are as essential as professional expertise in tackling persistent issues.
Rev. Dr. Ambrose F. Carroll, Founder, Green The Church
Rev. Dr. Carroll merges faith and sustainability through his non-profit, Green The Church. A Navy veteran, he also serves on the National Environmental Justice Action Committee for the EPA. He’s most proud of shifting from a traditional pastoral role to tackling broader environmental issues through community engagement.
This pivot enables him to empower churches as drivers of resilience and environmental stewardship. His work illustrates how faith-based communities can address systemic challenges.
Ali Dirul, Founder and CEO, Ryter Cooperative Industries
Ali Dirul’s firm focuses on clean energy in Detroit, creating community-owned solar projects. He recognizes that technology can empower communities, shaped by the lessons from his godmother, who taught him to build computers. His early experiences fostered a belief in the potential of technology to drive positive change.
Darryl Haddock, Environmental Education Director, West Atlanta Watershed Alliance
Darryl Haddock leads educational initiatives at the West Atlanta Watershed Alliance. He advocates for community-based education about stormwater management and environmental sustainability. Through partnerships with local colleges, he emphasizes the importance of collaboration for meaningful community engagement.
Darryl encourages young people to trust their unique paths. Finding a niche can take time, but it’s essential for long-term fulfillment in one’s career.
Peggy Shepard, Co-Founder and Executive Director, WE ACT for Environmental Justice
Peggy Shepard has dedicated herself to environmental advocacy in Northern Manhattan. Her organization combines grassroots efforts with participatory research to promote environmental health policies. She has been a pioneer in the environmental justice movement and continues to impact federal policies affecting her community.
One of her proudest achievements is establishing a Federal Policy Office in Washington, D.C., ensuring that environmental justice remains a priority for lawmakers. This strategic move has amplified the voices of her community and supported broader equity initiatives.
These leaders exemplify the critical intersection of climate action and social justice. Their dedication not only addresses pressing environmental issues but also fosters a sense of community empowerment and resilience. As the fight against climate change continues, initiatives grounded in equity will shape a more sustainable future for all.
For more on their impactful work, visit organizations like Hive Fund for Climate and Gender Justice and WE ACT for Environmental Justice.
