Congratulations to Chief Henry Red Cloud! 

Vote Solar is proud to honor outstanding energy justice heroes with the Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award (formerly the Solar Justice Award). The Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award honors the legacy of a tireless community and environmental justice leader by recognizing Black, Indigenous, and other leaders of color and oppressed ethnic groups. Only individuals who identify as part of these communities are eligible for this award. Eligible individuals must represent community-based organizations and meet the following criteria:

• Long-time leaders in their communities (10+ years of work in energy or environmental justice), may be located anywhere in the U.S. or territories who are
  • Dedicated to improving health and well-being in their community through clean energy
  • Strong coalition builders– able to mobilize support both within and around their community
  • Working at the intersection of racial justice & clean energy access
  • Working to stop extractive and/or polluting industry in their community
  • Working to bring jobs and savings to their community via clean energy opportunities
  • Influencing the state, local, or federal energy policy agenda through direct grassroots advocacy

These award recipients serve as models of environmental justice leadership and inspire us all to work toward a just clean energy transition. In giving this award, Vote Solar aims to honor the critically important role of community-based activism by people of color in driving environmental progress and to increase visibility for the remarkable work of individual leaders. If you are unsure about your eligibility to apply, please direct questions to (cmadray@votesolar.org). 

The awardee will receive a $10,000 financial award that can be used personally or donated to a 501c3 of their choice.

2025 Update: Optional Public Recognition

All top ten nominees have chosen to opt in for public recognition this year.

Because every nominee elected to participate publicly, the 2025 award process is proceeding with an open format, including public celebration of all top 10 nominees, finalists, and the awardee. Their leadership and contributions will be recognized through Vote Solar’s website, media announcements, and social platforms.

Background

In response to the increased risks faced by environmental justice leaders of color, Vote Solar revised the Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award process to make public recognition optional for all nominees, finalists, and awardees. This change was made to prioritize safety, autonomy, and informed consent.

Each nominee received information outlining the potential risks and benefits of public recognition and was given the opportunity to opt out without affecting their eligibility or chances of selection.

This year, all nominees chose to be recognized publicly. As a result, Vote Solar will move forward with an open recognition process that honors their choice while continuing to uphold our commitment to safety, equity, and respect for personal agency.