nuwsletter | january 2024
Volume 13
our nuwsletter / January 2024
Quote of the month:
“The strength of a society is measured by how well it uplifts its most marginalized members.”
nu-education:
A safe physical environment is crucial to the well-being and overall quality of life of individuals and communities. Our physical space fosters health, productivity, and a sense of security. Ensuring safety in our surroundings minimizes the risk of accidents, injuries, and illnesses, promoting both physical and mental health.
Climate change poses a severe threat to the physical health of all but disproportionately affects marginalized communities around the world. Studies and reports from the Environmental Protection Agency consistently highlight the vulnerability of these groups, emphasizing the intersecting factors that worsen the effects of climate change on marginalized populations, such as refugees and migrants, communities of color, indigenous communities, and communities in poverty.
Socioeconomic disparities exacerbate the vulnerability of marginalized communities. Limited access to resources, education, and economic opportunities often restrict their ability to adapt to the changing climate. The United Nations notes that marginalized communities, particularly in developing nations, face higher risks due to their dependence on climate-sensitive sectors such as agriculture, and their limited capacity to recover from climate-related shocks and natural disasters.
Moreover, environmental racism plays a significant role, as marginalized communities are often disproportionately exposed to environmental hazards. According to the American Lung Association, communities of color in the United States, for instance, are more likely to live in areas with poor air quality, increasing their susceptibility to respiratory issues exacerbated by climate change. Similarly, indigenous communities globally, who are often custodians of biodiversity-rich areas, face displacement due to changing ecosystems.
Additionally, climate-induced extreme weather events, such as hurricanes, floods, and droughts, tend to impact marginalized communities more severely. The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions reports that these events can disproportionately affect vulnerable populations due to factors like inadequate infrastructure, housing, and evacuation resources.
The intersectionality of socioeconomic status, systemic inequalities, and environmental racism amplifies the impact of climate change on marginalized communities. Addressing climate change must involve an understanding of these complexities to ensure equitable solutions that
prioritize the resilience and well-being of those most affected. Consider how you can contribute to addressing environmental racism and supporting communities affected by climate change.
1. Raise awareness: Use social media, blogs, and other platforms to share information
2. Support affected communities: Uplift the needs and asks of communities directly affected by environmental racism
3. Advocate for Policy Change: Push for stronger environmental regulations and policies at local, state, and national levels
4. Participate in Environmental Justice Movements: Join or support organizations and movements focused on environmental justice
nu-spotlight:
Check out some virtual! events happening this month! All times in Eastern Daylight Time.
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Join me in my New Year's webinar to explore lessons in my own personal DEI fails. In this candid discussion, we will: Explore the importance of efforts around DEI...even when it feels like we're messing it up. Share in stories of failure... and the lessons that have come out of those experiences. Consider how we can do better as we continue to learn with and from one another
2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Virtual
$11.50 CAD
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This is a peer-led space for Black LGBTQ+ community. We hold space for ALL Black LGBTQ+ community, if you live at the intersection of being Black and LGBTQ+ you are welcome in this space. This space is open for you to explore your identity, your history, where you came from and where you are. We welcome you to bring your entire self, regardless of where you are at in your journey. We welcome those that are unsure of their Black queer identity. This group is a space to learn and share about our collective experiences.
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Virtual
FREE
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In this engaging session, we'll delve into the vital importance of cultural understanding and collaboration between communities. Discover the key principles for fostering respectful connections between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Peoples and creating ‘ethical space’ to bring together different worldviews. We will discuss strategies, stories, and experiences based on meaningful engagement, collaboration, and reconciliation. Gain insights into how strong relationships can lead to a more inclusive and equitable world. Join us on a journey towards mutual respect, partnership, and shared prosperity.
11:00 am - 3:00 pm
Virtual
FREE
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This workshop is designed to equip leaders, managers, and HR professionals with the knowledge and strategies to ensure their commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI)
12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
Virtual
FREE
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In this session we welcome speakers who will remove the confusion that exists around both gender diversity and the manager’s role in providing support. The session will explain what gender diversity means and will provide suggestions and best practice measures for how to support managers in holding discussions with employees affected by gender diversity issues.
8:30 am - 10:00 am
Virtual
FREE
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We have pledged to create a space for DEIB Leaders to come together regularly to connect with other DEIB Leaders to reflect, to discuss, to share best practice and to potentially collaborate.
12:30 pm - 1:30 pm
Virtual
FREE
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In this training, we will dive deeper into the core concepts of DEI and explore practical strategies for creating a more inclusive and equitable environment. Whether you are new to DEI or looking to expand your knowledge, this training is designed to provide you with valuable insights and tools to foster a more inclusive workplace or community.
8:00 am to 9:30 am
Virtual
FREE
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The seminar focuses on the DEI leadership conversation at the board level, taking the guesswork out of starting the process and offering practical strategies for empowering nonprofit board members to lead on diversity, equity, and inclusion matters.
12:00 pm to 1:00 pm
Virtual
FREE
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A safe space for professionals who identify as Black, Indigenous, or People of Color (BIPOC) to find community and support.
6:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Virtual
FREE
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