Celebrating Dr. Espanola Jackson’s Legacy: Watch NKwanda Jah’s Awardee Spotlight

As we celebrate Dr. Espanola Jackson’s birthday this February 9th, we’re honored to share this video spotlight featuring NKwanda Jah, the recipient of the 2024 Energy Justice Award. There’s no better way to honor Dr. Jackson’s memory than by amplifying the voices of those who continue her fight for energy justice.

For more than 40 years, NKwanda has embodied the same passionate advocacy that defined Dr. Jackson’s work. Like Dr. Jackson, who tirelessly fought for energy equity in San Francisco’s Bayview-Hunters Point community, NKwanda has been a relentless champion for environmental justice in Alachua County, Florida. Her innovative approach to community organizing has led to groundbreaking projects like the EMPOWER Coalition, recognized twice by the US Department of Energy as a LEAP Community.

In our conversation, NKwanda discusses how her early experiences in organizing influenced her understanding of environmental justice. She shares insights from her work leading the Alachua County NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Committee, where she organized vital community forums addressing environmental awareness and climate change.

The conversation  captures the essence of what makes NKwanda’s leadership unique: her ability to bring diverse stakeholders together, ensure all voices are heard, and create practical solutions for energy equity. Her work carries forward Dr. Jackson’s legacy while creating new paths forward in the ongoing fight for energy justice.