TL/DR –
Jasmin Loaiza, a member of Chispa Arizona, joined over 40 advocacy groups at the state Capitol for “Environmental Advocacy Day,” an annual event that connects climate-conscious Arizonans with their lawmakers to advocate for changes in environmental policy. Chispa Arizona and the Sierra Club have worked with legislators to introduce four bills this year, including ones to repeal a state ban on agencies creating their own greenhouse gas regulations, repeal parts of a proposition prohibiting the restriction of car sales based on energy source, and a resolution declaring all Arizonans have a right to a clean and healthy environment. Despite challenges in getting these bills considered in a Republican-controlled legislature, the activists remain determined to fight for a free, just, and clean environment.
Jasmin Loaiza Advocates for Climate Change at the State Capitol
Jasmin Loaiza, mother and advocate, attended the State Capitol to voice her concerns about climate change and advocate for environmental justice. Loaiza collaborates with Chispa Arizona, a group striving to mobilize the Latinx community for environmental justice.
Chispa Arizona Participates in “Environmental Advocacy Day”
Chispa Arizona was among 40+ advocacy groups that participated in “Environmental Advocacy Day” at the Capitol. This annual event facilitates dialogue between the public and lawmakers, enabling environmentally conscious Arizonans to influence environmental policies.
Increasing Impact of Environmental Advocacy Day
Sandy Bahr, the lead organizer of Environmental Advocacy Day and head of the Sierra Club Grand Canyon Chapter, notes that the event has grown significantly since its beginnings in the 90s. Over 300 people registered to participate this year, with community groups setting up tables across the Wesley Bolin Plaza.
Sierra Club and Chispa Arizona Collaborate on Legislative Efforts
The Sierra Club collaborated with Chispa Arizona to introduce four bills this year, targeting greenhouse gas regulation, energy source restrictions for cars, and the constitutional right to a healthy environment.
- SB 1331 and HB 2397 aim to repeal a state law prohibiting state agencies from regulating greenhouse gas emissions without legislative approval.
- SB 1332 seeks to repeal parts of Proposition 400, which restricts the sale or use of cars based on their energy source.
- HCR 2015 is a resolution to amend the state constitution, declaring every Arizonan’s right to a clean, healthy environment.
Challenges and Persistence in Advocacy
Despite the challenge of passing legislation in a Republican-controlled legislature, Vania Guevara, Chispa’s advocacy deputy director, and other activists remain dedicated. Their persistence paid off last year when they secured $300,000 for the “Trees for Kids” initiative. This Senate Bill 1689 aimed to plant trees at lower-income schools, despite never being heard in committee.
Commitment to Environmental Advocacy
Sandy Bahr reaffirms her commitment to the cause, stating, “It’s too important to give up, and I know that most people agree.” The work of advocates like Bahr and Loaiza exemplifies the tenacity required in the ongoing pursuit of environmental justice.
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