Climate change is a pressing issue that affects everyone, including the LGBTQ community. According to a report by The Williams Institute at UCLA School of Law, climate change exacerbates existing disparities among individuals and communities. LGBTQ individuals, particularly same-sex couples, face a greater risk to the negative effects of climate change compared to non-LGBTQ individuals. They are more likely to live in coastal regions or areas at risk due to climate change, reside in areas with poor infrastructure and access to vital resources, and are often overlooked in relief efforts, especially in communities where religious-affiliated organizations are prevalent.
Extreme weather events, such as Hurricane Katrina in 2005, have not only been deadly and costly to affected communities but have also disproportionately impacted LGBTQ individuals living within them. LGBTQ families were often overlooked in relief efforts, leading to separation during resettlement and difficulties in applying for aid, particularly in areas where religious organizations provided relief.
Recent research from The Trevor Project shows that climate change is a significant concern for LGBTQ youth, with 93% expressing worry about it to some extent. This highlights the importance of addressing climate change not only for the present generation but also for future generations, including LGBTQ individuals.
Vice President Kamala Harris has a strong record on climate change, demonstrating her commitment to environmental justice and sustainability. During her time as San Francisco’s district attorney, she created one of the first environmental justice units in the country. She has also held former President Trump accountable for his ties to Big Oil and has advocated for policies to combat climate change and protect vulnerable communities.
The Biden-Harris administration has made significant strides in addressing climate change, including announcing grants to fund community-driven solutions, promoting clean energy transportation methods like electric vehicles, and pledging billions to the Green Climate Fund. These efforts aim to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, create sustainable infrastructure, and combat the effects of climate change on communities across the country.
Harris’s stance on climate change emphasizes the urgent need for action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the planet for future generations. Her campaign has been endorsed by leading environmental organizations, highlighting her dedication to environmental issues and sustainability.
Overall, climate change is a critical issue for the LGBTQ community, and the actions taken by leaders like Vice President Kamala Harris and the Biden-Harris administration are crucial in addressing this global challenge. By prioritizing environmental justice, sustainability, and community resilience, we can work towards a more equitable and sustainable future for all.