The LGBTQIA+ community is bringing powerful energy to the fight for a healthy planet. This Pride Month, we’re spotlighting three incredible environmental groups. These champions for the planet are redefining the narrative of environmental activism and carving out a unique path toward a sustainable future where every voice is heard and every individual is empowered to make a difference. Keep reading to learn more about their journeys.
Queers X Climate: A Force for Social and Environmental Justice
Founded in 2019, Queers X Climate (QXC) emerged from a growing recognition that the climate crisis disproportionately impacts marginalized communities. They’re dedicated to uniting climate and LGBTQIA+ activism to develop and implement solutions for the global climate crisis. The group quickly gained momentum, creating a network of members passionate about environmental justice.
One of QXC’s signature initiatives is its climate pledge, a six-step commitment based on the best available science that encourages individuals to reduce their carbon footprint significantly. QXC goes beyond personal action. They organize educational workshops, promote community activism, and hold corporations and governments accountable for climate action. Through online resources and communities, QXC promotes an initiative with ambitious goals to unite LGBTQIA+ and climate advocates to build a more just and sustainable world.
Out for Sustainability: A Voice for LGBTQIA+ Environmental Action
Out for Sustainability (OUT4S) is dedicated to initiatives advocating for LGBTQIA+ issues and environmental justice. Founded in 2008 in Seattle, the organization uses its platform for advocacy, education, and co-creating climate resilience and environmental justice for LGBTQIA+ communities.
The organization tackles environmental issues through a social justice lens. Their flagship program, Qready, focuses on disaster preparedness and resilience within the LGBTQIA+ community, particularly for BIPOC individuals. Through workshops and community outreach, Qready empowers people to develop emergency plans, build support networks, and advocate for inclusive disaster response policies. OUT4S also organizes educational events and campaigns that raise awareness about environmental issues and inspire LGBTQIA+ participation in environmental activism.
Queer Ecojustice Project: Cultivating Culture, Consciousness, and Community
Founded in 2012, the Queer Ecojustice Project (QEJ) organizes at the intersection of ecological justice and queer liberation. Equipped with a community of multimedia storytellers, the organization is working toward a future where environmental activism is inherently inclusive, and LGBTQIA+ voices are at the forefront of the fight for a healthy planet.
QEJ operates on multiple fronts, fostering a vibrant online community and organizing impactful media projects. Their online platform features articles, interviews, and resources that explore the connections between environmental issues and LGBTQIA+ identities. They also curate film screenings and discussions that spark critical conversations about climate change, social justice, and the importance of queer perspectives in environmental movements.
One example of an impactful project from QEJ is “Fire & Flood,” a docuseries that sheds light on the disproportionate impact of environmental disasters on LGBTQIA+ communities, inspiring action and solidarity.
Protecting the Planet with Pride
The intersection of LGBTQIA+ advocacy and environmental stewardship illuminates a path toward a more inclusive, resilient future for the planet and everyone on it. These organizations exemplify the transformative power of collective action driven by diversity, empathy, and a desire to cultivate community. As their accomplishments are acknowledged, also recognize the importance of amplifying their voices, supporting their initiatives, and striving toward a world where environmental justice is synonymous with social justice.
Remember, there’s a place for all in this movement regardless of background or identity—it takes everyone to work toward a healthier planet.
