Jameka Hodnett – Championing Climate Justice and Green Advocacy
In the realm of climate justice and green advocacy, there are remarkable individuals who tirelessly fight for policies that reduce carbon pollution and create green job opportunities. Jameka Hodnett, the Chief Program Officer for The Chisholm Legacy Project: A Resource Hub for Black Frontline Climate Justice Leadership, is one such seasoned climate justice policy advocate. With her passion for a clean energy economy and a commitment to equitable access, Jameka has left an indelible mark on the movement.
A Vision for Climate Justice:
Jameka Hodnett’s dedication to climate justice and a clean energy economy is unwavering. Jameka was formerly the National Director of Campaigns at Dream.org, where she channeled her skills in campaigning and lobbying to advocate for policies that drive positive change. Her work at Dream.org focused on ensuring that the benefits of critical initiatives like the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA) and Justice40 extend to communities that have been historically underinvested in by state and federal governments. Through her leadership, Jameka drove state and federal IRA implementation, making a tangible impact on climate policies nationwide.
Additionally, Jameka’s commitment to climate justice extends to her role as a Local Climate Action Policy fellow with Elemental Excelerator. In this capacity, she is empowering a cohort of African American Mayors to access IRA, IIJA (Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act), and Justice40 funding, fostering equitable climate action at the local level.
Most recently, Jameka transitioned to become the Chief Program Officer at The Chisholm Legacy Project: A Resource Hub for Black Frontline Climate Justice Leadership. We applaud this move and are excited to see her work at the Project.
A Track Record of Impactful Advocacy:
Jameka Hodnett’s impressive track record in climate advocacy speaks volumes about her commitment to creating change. As the Executive Director of Climate Equity with A/B Partners, she led a multimillion-dollar climate disinformation war room campaign, supporting 60 grantee partners under the Climate and Clean Energy Equity Funds. Jameka has also played pivotal roles in other prominent organizations, serving as the Deputy National Organizing Director at ACLU, where she mobilized 4 million members to pass legislation across multiple states. Her work as the Head of Field Organizing & Campaigns at 350.org involved collaborating with 150 local groups to pressure legislators to phase-out fossil fuels at both the federal and state levels.
Driving Access to Clean Energy:
Jameka’s dedication to providing access to clean energy and promoting sustainability is evident in her past roles. As the Deputy Director of Civic Engagement at the League of Conservation Voters, she played a crucial role in restoring access to the vote for over 1.4 million people, ensuring that their voices were heard in environmental decisions. Additionally, her tenure as the Director of Programs at DC Solar United Neighborhoods saw the successful implementation of DC’s Solar for All Program. This groundbreaking initiative aims to bring the benefits of solar energy to 100,000 low to moderate-income families in the District of Columbia.
Conclusion:
Jameka Hodnett’s journey as a climate justice policy advocate and green advocacy champion is characterized by passion, dedication, and impactful leadership. From her early days in law school to her present role at Dream.org, she has consistently fought for equitable access to clean energy and a sustainable future for all. Through her advocacy, Jameka continues to drive change and empower historically underinvested communities, leaving an enduring legacy in the fight against climate change. As she stands as a finalist for the esteemed Dr. Espanola Jackson Energy Justice Award, we express our gratitude for her remarkable contributions.