Climate Justice Durham (CJD) is an organization founded for the purpose of creating equity and justice for people of all socioeconomic backgrounds. They host various events to inform the public and support local advocacy efforts to amplify voices that are often under-represented in climate action efforts.
Climate change is an ongoing concern among under-represented communities globally, and CJD is working to ensure that the movement toward sustainability includes everyone.
The organization started in 2019, after its founders attended a protest led by a local mother. Inspired by the event, they decided to create a platform for community-driven advocacy. From there social media and email accounts were produced, and CJD was created.
The organization has grown more effective over the years, helping to shape the future and inform the community.
Climate justice consists of considering people of all communities when improving the climate landscape.
The organization operates under the principle of ensuring no one is left behind. “We are stronger as a community when nobody is left behind,” said Peter Cohen, a youth member of CJD.
Julia Stimpson (front left), Peter Cohen (front right), Alyssa Scanga (middle left), Christine Drimmie (middle right)
Brian Kelly (Back Left), Ruth Kelly (back middle-left) Trevor Cluthé (back middle-right), Suzanne Elston (back right)
Recently the organization began an initiative reaching out to people who have fears around climate change, especially those with economic struggles connected to those fears. Cohen called it “bridging the gap” by addressing broader community concerns and showing people how CJD advocates for them, and making sure their struggles are heard.
At a recent Durham seniors climate event the organization saw a large turnout. “It was really cool to see the community come together,” said Julia Stimpson, a youth member with the organization. “Our weekly meetings are on Zoom, as some of us are at school, so it’s nice to come together in a community capacity.”
CJD also attended the Durham Climate Roundtable Fall Forum earlier this month. Cohen participated in a panel discussion to promote interest around climate change on behalf of the organization.
CJD presents itself as a multi-generational organization, welcoming people of all ethnic backgrounds and ages to join and support their pursuit of justice and equity.
The organization plays an active role in shaping regional climate policies. They work to ensure that the climate voice is represented fairly in committees and meetings.
The organization also collaborates closely with local leaders, including MPP Jennifer French, to influence policy decisions that address climate change at the municipal level.
By participating in local committees, CJD contributes its expertise to guide policies as they’re developed. This work is particularly vital as, according to Government of Canada statistics, the country’s average annual temperature is increasing nearly twice as fast as the global average. The Toronto and Region Conservation Authority expects more days of extreme temperature in the future.
On a national scale, the organization aligns with the Canadian Coalition for Environmental and Climate Justice, which recently celebrated the passing of Bill C-226. This bill mandates the Minister of Environment to collaborate with organizations to create a plan addressing environmental racism across Canada.
CJD continues to support under-represented communities in the fight to improve climate issues all around. They use their voice to keep people aware of important problems arising.
Climate change has become a more prevalent issue over time. You can support Climate Justice Durham by attending the events posted on its website, as well as staying informed on climate change issues.