Throughout history and across cultures, the powers of nature have been associated with women. The lessons that came from goddesses once revered have been ignored, leaving Mother Earth in peril. The science and data behind rising global and ocean temperatures, melting arctic ice, and increases in carbon dioxide and methane are confirmed with “unequivocal evidence,”–making now the time to elect a leader who will provide solutions from a position of power.
As the presidential election approaches amidst an escalating climate crisis, it is essential to recognize the transformative impact women have made in leadership roles around the world. More than 70 countries have elected women as presidents or prime ministers, many of whom have championed environmental causes. For example, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf of Liberia emphasized sustainable forestry practices. At the same time, New Zealand’s Jacinda Ardern took bold steps to transition her country toward carbon neutrality by banning offshore oil exploration. Similarly, Angela Merkel of Germany was instrumental in driving forward the renewable energy revolution in Europe.
Leaders should not be defined by their gender but by their experience and dedication to creating meaningful change. Throughout Harris’ career, she has demonstrated that she is a leader who takes bold, decisive action to ensure the planet remains a viable home for future generations. Now, more than ever, we need a leader who understands both the urgency of the climate crisis and the solutions required to address it.
A Proven Climate Champion
Candidates with a proven track record on climate issues bring valuable experience to the table. For example, Vice President Kamala Harris has been an advocate for environmental justice throughout her career. Her initiatives, from founding one of the nation’s first environmental justice units as District Attorney of San Francisco to supporting clean energy legislation as a U.S. senator, show a consistent commitment to tackling the climate crisis head-on. A leader who has demonstrated the ability to prioritize sustainable policies can help the nation meet its climate goals.
Helping Those Impacted by Climate Change
Climate-related disasters are becoming the norm. In 2022, the prevalence–and impact–of these events prompted Vice President Harris to announce a $1 billion grant program to empower communities across the nation to prepare for and respond to such events. Two years later, communities across the country continue to be ravaged by wildfires, hurricanes, flooding, tornadoes, and storms. Recently, Harris visited Georgia to meet with residents impacted by Hurricane Helene, announcing that the federal government would cover 100 percent of the costs of debris removal and other emergency protective measures while also deploying 1,000 active-duty soldiers to support the delivery of food, water, and other critical commodities to impacted communities.
Building on Momentum
As we look toward the future, building on existing initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act is key. This legislation has already led to significant investments in clean energy and job creation. A leader who is prepared to expand on this momentum can help America transition to a thriving clean energy economy, benefiting not just the environment but also the economy and workforce.
A Global Vision
Healing Mother Earth will require looking beyond the United States. It will require diplomacy, collaboration, and working with countries across the globe to achieve carbon reduction goals and implement programs to offset climate change. As Vice President, Harris has visited 21 countries and met with more than 150 world leaders. In addition to actively engaging with leaders across the world, Harris is comfortable speaking on a global stage and speaking on environmental matters. At the 2023 COP28 Summit, Harris stood in for President Biden, announcing that the U.S. would pledge another $3 billion to the Green Climate Fund.
Harris is an ally for our planet. In her own words, “Even given the challenges we face, I am optimistic. With ambition and bold action, I know we will build a cleaner, healthier, and more prosperous world for this generation and for generations to come.”
Vote!
Regardless of party affiliation, your vote is a powerful way to shape the future of our country. When you cast your vote, consider how your choice might influence the direction of climate policy, community resilience, and global cooperation. A leader with a vision for sustainable change could guide the country toward a future that balances economic growth with environmental responsibility.
Voting is more than a civic duty—it’s a chance to contribute to the kind of change that can benefit everyone. By participating in the upcoming election, each of us has the opportunity to ensure that the voices advocating for a sustainable and equitable future are heard. Whether you’re inspired by the idea of breaking barriers or driven by a desire for effective climate action, your vote can be a step toward a better future for all.
Let’s come together, regardless of our differences, and use our votes to help shape a brighter tomorrow.
