The climate crisis is one of the most pressing issue of our time, which requires a revolution of equivalent urgency. Therefore, it is reasonable that when we are inspired to fight for change we may not realize the consequences of the actions that we participate in, in good faith. It is our responsibility to take a step back and ask ourselves how we can exist in solidarity with marginalized communities while fighting against climate change.

Intersectionality is defined as “the interconnected nature of social categorizations such as race, class, and gender as they apply to a given individual or group, regarded as creating overlapping and interdependent systems of discrimination or disadvantage.” Those who are part of marginalized communities, such as Indigenous, people of colour, womxn, LGBTQIA+, disabled and neurodiverse peoples, are all at a higher risk of the negative repercussions of climate change than the majority.

A marginalized community that has been negatively affected by surface-level activism are disabled and neurodiverse peoples. For example, the reduction and banning of single-use plastics, straws specifically, have put disabled and neurodiverse peoples at risk of eco-ableism. Eco-ableism “…is simply a form of ableism, or discrimination in favor of able-bodied people.” Where “…“eco” comes from environmental activists who, through attempting to save the environment, don’t do so that takes into account those with less privilege than them.” Straws are a necessity for many people, who cannot simply lift a cup to their mouth without significant consequences to their health. The reduction of single-use plastics by corporations and individuals alike are necessary, but without the inclusion of marginalized communities, such activism is hollow and transparent. Rather than helping solve the issue of climate change, it weakens the argument climate activists present and is prone to valid criticism.

The climate crisis requires a thorough, intersectional and urgent solution. This may seem like an oxymoron, however, the climate crisis requires a response that arises from solidarity and empathy. Any activism that is less than this standard is hollow and will cause division, rather than promote collectivism. We owe it not only to the earth, but to each other, to come together in a rainbow coalition for the wellbeing of our home.

written by – Serena Bains