When it comes to the fight against climate change, young activists of color are leading the charge in ways that are innovative, intersectional, and deeply impactful. Yet, despite their groundbreaking work, these voices are often overlooked or overshadowed in mainstream conversations about environmentalism. As someone who’s passionate about amplifying marginalized perspectives, I’ve learned how crucial it is to uplift these leaders—not just by acknowledging their efforts but by actively supporting and sharing their platforms.
In this article, I’ll share practical ways we can all contribute to uplifting the voices of young climate activists of color. Plus, I’ll highlight 10 incredible accounts you should follow to stay informed and inspired. Whether you’re new to this space or already an advocate, these steps will help you become a better ally in the movement for climate justice.
Why It’s Essential to Uplift Young Climate Activists of Color
Before diving into how we can support these activists, let’s talk about why it’s so important. Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue—it’s a social justice issue. Communities of color disproportionately bear the brunt of environmental degradation, from polluted air and water to rising sea levels and extreme weather events. Despite this reality, the voices of those most affected are often excluded from decision-making spaces.
Young climate activists of color bring unique perspectives to the table. They understand the intersections between race, class, gender, and the environment in ways that challenge traditional narratives of environmentalism. By centering their voices, we create a more inclusive and effective movement—one that addresses both the symptoms and root causes of the climate crisis.
For me, following and learning from these activists has been transformative. Their courage, creativity, and resilience remind me that the future of climate action lies in diverse leadership. Here’s how we can all play a role in amplifying their work.
How to Uplift Young Climate Activists of Color
1. Listen and Learn
The first step is simple: listen. Take the time to educate yourself about the issues these activists are addressing. Read their articles, watch their interviews, and engage with their content thoughtfully. Avoid centering your own perspective or trying to “fix” things—instead, focus on understanding their experiences and priorities.
2. Share Their Work
One of the most powerful actions you can take is sharing their content. Repost their social media updates, retweet their threads, and recommend their writing to others. Amplifying their messages helps them reach wider audiences and ensures their voices aren’t drowned out.
3. Donate to Their Causes
Many young activists of color operate on shoestring budgets or rely entirely on grassroots funding. Consider donating to organizations they support or crowdfunding campaigns they’ve launched. Even small contributions can make a big difference.
4. Attend Their Events
Whether it’s a virtual panel discussion, a rally, or a webinar, show up for events led by young activists of color. Your presence demonstrates solidarity and helps amplify their message within your own networks.
5. Use Your Privilege Wisely
If you hold privilege due to your race, socioeconomic status, or other factors, use it to advocate for these activists. This might mean recommending them for speaking opportunities, nominating them for awards, or using your platform to spotlight their work.
6. Support Intersectional Policies
Advocate for policies that address both climate justice and racial equity. For example, push for clean energy initiatives that prioritize low-income communities or oppose projects that harm Indigenous lands. By aligning your advocacy with theirs, you strengthen the movement as a whole.
7. Challenge Tokenism
Be mindful not to tokenize young activists of color by treating them as symbols rather than individuals. Instead, recognize their full humanity and respect their boundaries. If they decline media requests or public appearances, honor their wishes without pressuring them.
8. Engage in Conversations About Representation
Talk to your friends, family, and colleagues about why representation matters in climate activism. Highlight the achievements of young activists of color and encourage others to follow their lead.
9. Avoid Performative Allyship
It’s easy to fall into the trap of performative allyship—liking a post or wearing a slogan tee without taking meaningful action. Instead, commit to long-term support by staying engaged with their work and advocating consistently.
10. Celebrate Their Wins
Finally, celebrate the victories of young climate activists of color! Whether it’s securing policy changes, raising awareness, or mobilizing communities, their successes deserve recognition. Celebrating these wins inspires hope and motivates continued action.
10 Young Climate Activists of Color You Should Follow
Here are 10 inspiring young activists whose work deserves your attention. Give them a follow and spread the word about their incredible contributions:
1. Xiye Bastida (@xiyebastida)
A member of the Otomi-Toltec Indigenous community, Xiye is a prominent organizer with Fridays for Future and a vocal advocate for Indigenous rights and climate justice.
2. Isra Hirsi (@israhirsi)
Co-founder of the U.S. Youth Climate Strike, Isra focuses on intersectionality and ensuring that Black, Brown, and Indigenous voices are centered in the climate movement.
3. Leah Thomas (@greengirlleah)
Founder of Intersectional Environmentalist, Leah educates her audience on the importance of inclusivity in environmentalism and advocates for equitable climate solutions.
4. Vanessa Nakate (@vanessa_vash)
A Ugandan activist, Vanessa founded the Rise Up Movement and works tirelessly to highlight the disproportionate impacts of climate change on African nations.
5. Ayisha Siddiqa (@ayishasiddiqa)
An NYC-based activist, Ayisha co-founded Polluters Out and focuses on divesting from fossil fuels while empowering youth-led movements globally.
6. Jerome Foster II (@jeromefosterii)
A White House Climate Advisor and founder of OneMillionOfUs, Jerome advocates for youth engagement in politics and policy-making around climate issues.
7. Nakabuye Hilda Flavia (@hildafeminist)
A Ugandan activist and founder of Fridays for Future Uganda, Hilda raises awareness about the devastating effects of climate change on African ecosystems and livelihoods.
8. Daphne Frias (@daphnefrias)
A disabled Latina activist, Daphne fights for accessibility in climate activism and emphasizes the need for inclusive solutions that benefit everyone.
9. Aditya Mukarji (@adityamukarji)
An Indian activist, Aditya focuses on combating plastic pollution and promoting sustainable practices through education and grassroots organizing.
10. Autumn Peltier (@autumn.peltier)
A member of the Wiikwemkoong First Nation, Autumn is a water protector who advocates for clean drinking water and Indigenous sovereignty over natural resources.
Final Thoughts
Uplifting the voices of young climate activists of color isn’t just an act of solidarity—it’s a necessity for building a fairer, more sustainable world. These leaders are redefining what it means to be an environmentalist, proving that the movement must address systemic inequalities to succeed.
For me, supporting these activists has been a journey of unlearning, listening, and taking action. It’s taught me that true allyship requires humility, consistency, and a willingness to step aside when necessary. By following the steps outlined above and engaging with the incredible individuals listed here, you can contribute to a brighter, more inclusive future.
So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get to work—together, we can ensure that every voice in the climate movement is heard, valued, and celebrated.
If you’d like more recommendations or resources, feel free to reach out—I’m always happy to connect and share ideas!
