The Environmental Justice Movement was formalized and nationalized in the United States in 1982, representing protests, marches, research, and organizing that were spearheaded in my instances by Black women and women of color.

Like so many movements before it, the Environmental Justice Movement, which drew heavy inspiration and strategy from the Civil Rights Movement before it, also inherited a backbone on the labor and passion of women. They were – are – the organizers, the leaders, the caregivers, the chefs, the bookkeepers, and so much more. And despite there long held position in these movements, there are so many women – elders and youth – who remain under-recognized in this critical work.

The Mothers of Environmental Justice collection focuses on the lived experiences and robust histories of some of the most prominent women-identifying activists in the Environmental Justice Movement. These women are legends in the fight against climate change and for clean water, air, and soil, representing multiple generations of movement leaders and activists.

Note: This collection only represents a small portion of the numerous women who have built the foundations upon which this movement stand. We want to express gratitude to those who shared their time with us as we attempt to bring light to all those amazing individuals leading movement work.