In southwest Yonkers, NY, a historically marginalized and racially-segregated community along the Hudson River, the need for climate-resilient and green-space advocacy programs is especially urgent. Home to 80,000 residents, Yonkers is one of New York’s most economically and socially challenged areas. The area’s steep terrain and lack of green space contribute to heat waves that cause air pollution and public health issues.
This panel highlights the work of three civic spaces improvements programs related to climate resiliency. Panelists will share their unique missions and reflect on their experiences leading climate resiliency work in underserved neighborhoods.
LEARNING OBJECTIVES
- Learn from practitioners about on-the-ground programs and projects that work to improve the resiliency of public spaces in Environmental Justice communities
- Identify the factors that build effective climate justice partnerships in a single geography involving grassroots constituencies and major public institutions
- Learn how to utilize current data and maps to assess and analyze parks and public spaces for climate hazards and how to use such information to propel inclusive resiliency action
