Celebrating Black Environmental Leaders Who Paved the Way

Dr. John Francis: Founder of Planetwalker and Environmental Advocate

In 1971, John Francis witnessed an oil spill in San Francisco Bay, a moment that sparked his lifelong commitment to environmental activism. Joining the many volunteers who helped clean up the spill, he soon realized he wanted to take an even stronger stand in protecting our environment and the planet. He gave up motorized transportation, choosing instead to walk everywhere. This journey of activism further deepened when he took a 17-year vow of silence, using his actions rather than words to inspire change. 

Following his vow of silence, Dr. Francis played a pivotal role in shaping environmental policy. Working in the U.S. Coast Guard, he wrote oil spill regulations after the Exxon Valdez disaster in Alaska and was later appointed U.N. Goodwill Ambassador to the World’s Grassroots Communities.

In 1982, he founded Planetwalk, a nonprofit dedicated to environmental education and advocacy. Through national and international walks, Planetwalk promotes sustainability and environmental justice. Dr. Francis’s legacy continues to inspire action, reminding us that personal commitment can lead to profound global impact. 

Majora Carter: Transforming Communities Through Sustainable Revitalization

Majora Carter is a powerhouse in the African American community for her work as a real estate developer, urban revitalization consultant, and advocate for sustainable community growth. A MacArthur Fellow and Peabody Award winner, she has dedicated her career to transforming low-status neighborhoods into thriving, self-sustaining communities. Through an environmental lens, Carter addresses the interconnected challenges between ecological, economic, and social degradation factors that divide communities. 

As the founder of the Majora Carter Group, she leads a consulting firm focused on a green economy and infrastructure development, helping communities unlock their full potential. Her work spearheading projects that addressed socio-economic challenges has earned her eight honorary PhDs and awards. Her work continues to create opportunities for lower-status communities, fostering connections, job opportunities, and long-term investment. 

George Washington Carver: Agricultural Innovator and Conservationist

George Washington Carver can be regarded as one of the most influential agricultural researchers and educators. He is often recognized as the first African American to earn a bachelor’s degree in science, which he received in 1894 from the Iowa State University (formerly Iowa State Agricultural College). Carver made groundbreaking advancements in resource conservation and agricultural productivity by applying natural sciences to soil preservation and sustainable farming practices.

Marjorie Richard: Champion for Environmental Justice and Community Health

Majorie Richard grew up in Norco, Louisiana, a historically African American neighborhood near a pipeline. In 1973, an explosion at the pipeline killed two people, a tragedy that propelled Richard into environmental justice advocacy. Determined to hold those accountable for the ongoing health crises in her community, she secured an agreement from the pipeline owner to reduce their emissions by 30%, improve emergency evacuation routes, and fund revitalization efforts and relocation costs for affected residents. 

Her work as an environmental and civil rights activist led her to become the first African American to win the Goldman Environmental Prize. Today, Richard continues to help advise communities—particularly African American neighborhoods—in their fight against environmental injustices, ensuring marginalized voices are heard and protected.