Bennett College Hosts Climate Justice Discussion with Dr. Monica White
Bennett College’s Green Team is set to welcome Dr. Monica White for an insightful discussion on Black women and climate change. The event will take place on Friday, March 28, from 11 a.m. to 12 noon at the Annie Merner Pfeiffer Chapel. Dr. White, a leading scholar in environmental and food justice, will highlight the impact of race and gender in environmental activism.
As the Distinguished Chair of Integrated Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, Dr. White has dedicated her career to studying Black grassroots food systems. Her research sheds light on how these systems help combat hunger and oppression while promoting sustainability. This event is free and open to the public, inviting students, educators, and environmental advocates to engage in a critical conversation on climate justice.
Trailblazing Career in Environmental Studies
Dr. Monica White made history as the first Black woman to earn tenure in both the College of Agricultural Life Sciences and the Nelson Institute of Environmental Studies at UW-Madison. Her pioneering work bridges the gap between environmental justice and racial equity, amplifying the voices of marginalized communities in sustainable agriculture.
Her research highlights how Black farmers have long used agriculture as a tool for resilience and self-sufficiency. In her book Freedom Farmers, she explores the role of Black farming cooperatives in the fight against social and economic inequality. Through her scholarship, Dr. White continues to influence policies and initiatives that support food sovereignty and environmental sustainability.
Advocating for Climate Justice in Black Communities
Dr. White’s work focuses on the unique challenges Black communities face in the fight against climate change. Many historically Black neighborhoods are disproportionately affected by pollution, food insecurity, and inadequate environmental policies. She emphasizes the need for grassroots solutions to address these inequalities.
“Climate justice is racial justice,” Dr. White often says. “We cannot separate environmental sustainability from the struggles of marginalized communities.” By bringing her expertise to Bennett College, she hopes to inspire young leaders to take action in their own communities and push for inclusive environmental policies.
The HBCU Project and Future Initiatives
In addition to her research and teaching, Dr. White leads the HBCU Project, an initiative that strengthens agricultural and environmental programs at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This project provides resources for students and faculty to engage in agroecology, sustainable farming, and food justice efforts.
Through the HBCU Project, Dr. White aims to equip the next generation of Black environmental scholars with the tools to drive meaningful change. She has also secured prestigious research grants and teaching awards, further solidifying her influence in the field. Her upcoming talk at Bennett College is expected to spark important discussions on the role of education in addressing climate change.
A Must-Attend Event for Climate Advocates
The Bennett College event is a key opportunity for students, scholars, and environmental activists to learn from Dr. White’s vast experience. Her insights into climate justice, Black farming traditions, and sustainable solutions will provide attendees with practical knowledge to apply in their own advocacy work.
With climate change posing increasing threats to vulnerable communities, Dr. White’s leadership in environmental justice is more relevant than ever. Her talk will not only educate but also empower attendees to take action toward a more just and sustainable future.
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