ACLS19 Climate Leader Q&A: Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome

The American Climate Leadership Summit 2019 (ACLS19) on May 1-2 will feature conversations with prominent climate experts and advocates. This year’s theme is “Breakthrough,” and we’re looking for just that — breakthrough strategies and ideas to help transform climate action into a true national priority.

ecoAmerica asked our ACLS19 speakers to shine a light on their climate breakthrough moments and ideas. We’re pleased to provide the latest interview in our speaker series, from Jalonne White-Newsome.

Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome is the Senior Program Officer, Environment at The Kresge Foundation.

What was your climate breakthrough moment?

When I was at the first People’s Climate March in New York, with my husband and my two daughters. They were chanting as loud as I was, advocating for something they knew a little bit about, but that would hopefully shift the lives of little black and brown kids and other kids in their generation. I had worked on climate change in the past, but to me, that was the moment that I knew we can’t give up.

What do you wish more Americans knew about climate change?

I wish more Americans knew that climate change is already happening and it’s something we can do about it.

What are current climate breakthroughs or initiatives that inspire you/give you hope that we will effectively address climate change?

Seeing the children protesting across the country and world. Seeing the shift in leadership in Congress, and some Republicans admitting to the impacts of climate change.

What do you hope/believe the ACLS19 will accomplish in moving the needle on climate action/breakthrough?

Engaging new people, leaders and communities in learning, advocating and moving the needle on climate change. We have to keep on talking, bringing new partners together and this is an opportunity to do that!

Why should you/others join you at ACLS19?

This will be my first time at ACLS19, but it seems to be a wonderful gathering and line-up of leaders and voices on the work. Come be a part of the conversation, the learning, and action so we can all ‘challenge the norm’ by being innovative, bold and addressing racial equity in all of our proposed climate solutions!

Hear more from Dr. Jalonne White-Newsome May 1-2 at the American Climate Leadership Summit 2019 in Washington, D.C. Click Here to Register