Hofstra Presents Climate Solutions, Community Duty on Earth Day
TL/DR –
Hofstra University celebrated Earth Day 2025 with a schedule of programs showcasing its commitment to environmental leadership, interdisciplinary education, and public engagement. One of the main presentations was led by climate justice organizer Monique Fitzgerald and community organizer Kaneïta Marcelin from the Long Island Progressive Coalition, discussing how climate-related funding can address environmental and economic disparities. The day also included a range of events such as a climate change deliberation session, a presentation of student-led sustainability research, a panel on religious perspectives on environmental responsibility, a documentary screening, and a discussion on current environmental policy.
Hofstra University Celebrates Earth Day 2025
Hofstra University celebrated Earth Day 2025 with a diverse range of programming showcasing its commitment to environmental leadership, interdisciplinary education, and public outreach. Highlighting the day was an insightful presentation, Funding a Just Climate Transition, by climate justice advocate Monique Fitzgerald and community organizer Kaneïta Marcelin from the Long Island Progressive Coalition.
Addressing Climate-Related Funding and Economic Disparities
Fitzgerald and Marcelin examined the potential of climate-related funding to not only curb emissions but also rectify enduring environmental and economic disparities. Their grassroots organizing experience underscored the immediate need for climate policies that favor communities most impacted by pollution and climate change. Fitzgerald stressed, “We need to rectify the harms done to marginalized and Indigenous groups who contribute least to pollution but bear the brunt of climate change.”
NY State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act
Their talk spotlighted New York’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA), which calls for major emissions cuts and stipulates that a minimum of 35% of state climate funding goes to disadvantaged communities. They also discussed federal policies such as the Inflation Reduction Act, and the hurdles in ensuring allocated funding reaches those most in need. Marcelin pointed out issues with fund allocation, stating, “Despite the availability of funds, we have often seen a failure to transfer them to the communities.”
Hofstra’s Earth Day Program Highlights
Beyond this compelling presentation, Hofstra’s Earth Day agenda comprised a host of events, including a climate change deliberation session, an exhibition of student-led sustainability projects, an interfaith panel on environmental stewardship, a screening of award-winning documentary How to Power a City, and a discussion on the Trump administration’s environmental policies.
Contributing to Hofstra’s Strategic Plan
These activities, coordinated by Hofstra’s Center for Civic Engagement and Hofstra Cultural Center, contribute to the University’s Hofstra 100 strategic plan by promoting interdisciplinary dialogue, encouraging student research, and enhancing community engagement. Hofstra continues to be a venue for crucial dialogues that lead to informed action and enhance civic comprehension.
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