IDEA Talk: Understanding the Role of LGBTQIA+ Community Leadership in Environmental Activism

It's well established that climate change and other environmental hazards intersect with social issues, including racism, classism, homophobia, transphobia and more. For instance, LGBTQIA+ individuals often experience housing discrimination and a lack of consistent shelter, exacerbating risks they may face during dangerous storms. Many communities also face inadequate access to health care, meaning impacts like air pollution or contaminated water may pose extra danger. These risks are rarely discussed in mainstream media, and they are researched even less often, especially in countries where legal frameworks make even existing a challenge.

During Pride Month, EJN hosted an IDEA Talk about all the ways LGBTQIA+ communities are disproportionately affected by climate change and environmental degradation, as well as their role as leaders in environmental activism. 

"Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility (IDEA) Talk" is a webinar series that explores conversations on the confluence of the environment and vulnerable communities, including Indigenous women, women environmental defenders, LGBTQIA+ communities, persons with disabilities and more.

This webinar was provided in both English and Tagalog. Watch the Tagalog version on our YouTube channel.

Speakers:

• Arthur Golong (she/her), community leader and environmental protection advocate in the Philippines
   

Moderator:

• Arianne Olegario, gender equality and social inclusion advisor with Internews' Earth Journalism Network (EJN)