Hello Y-WE Family!
I would like to take this moment to acknowledge the harmful effects that are happening to my community. I’ve been mentally drained with the constant occurrence of the killings of Black Americans this past year and have noticed my body tensing up due to Derek Chauvin’s trail and viral Black deaths. From listening to my body, I have taken the measures of choosing to opt-out of the news and focus more on nature and being grounded with all the blessings earth gives us. Doing things like buying plants and going on long hikes has helped bring me closer to myself and this Earth.
This makes me extra grateful this year for Earth Day! This is one of my favorite days of the year (besides the last day of school!) to celebrate. When I think about the Earth, I think about the time spent at Y-WE programs on Marra Farms, where we grow nourishing food, respect the land, and honor the indigenous people who have stewarded this earth for generations. It’s times like these that remind me of how much of a blessing it is to have this beautiful space to call home. From the air we breathe, to the water that keeps us nourished, to the land on which we live and walk, to the sky that encourages us to go grow into our wildest dreams, the earth should be celebrated year-round.
This Earth Day, as I play with my cute niece (pictured below) I’m reflecting on the importance of environmental stewardship & advocacy. The lifestyle and activism choices I make today will directly impact the health and well-being of this planet for future generations. I encourage you to reflect and get active with me as we plant seeds, heal and cultivate the conditions where young women* of color, and our Earth, can thrive.
–Ami Njadoe,
Y-WE’s Communications and Development Intern
