The 2024 Lancet Countdown on Health and Climate Change highlights an urgent reality: climate-related health threats are escalating, and fossil fuel investments are exacerbating the crisis. Droughts, water contamination, and rising temperatures are symptoms of a larger imbalance we must urgently address. Waterspirit has linked the exacerbation of climate crisis to fossil fuel for years and continues to advocate for the prevention of fossil fuel projects in whatever form; co-pollutants disproportionately wreak havoc on the health of nearby life. Divesting from fossil fuels isn’t just an economic decision; it’s a spiritual one that affirms our responsibility to sacred Earth and water. We must prevent contamination at its source: funding. This shift requires more than policy change—it demands a transformation in how we think about our relationship as part of sacred Earth.
Pictured above is Sister Susan Francois, the Treasurer of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace, testifying in support of S198, the Fossil Fuel Divestment Act. Please show your support by sending a letter today!
This week, 11/7 and 11/8, DivestNJ, NJ21 United Third Act and Waterspirit are tabling at the NJ Environmental Education Association (NJEA) convention! Stop by both booths, play a game, take action and get connected to learn more about how you can help advance legislation at the state level!
Through curricula and advocacy, teachers can guide the next generation to understand the interconnectedness of environmental and social justice. Students are already leading the charge, organizing strikes and campaigns that demand action on climate crisis. Despite growing urgency, trillions of dollars continue to flow into fossil fuel subsidies, unnecessarily locking us into a destructive cycle. We can collectively push for divestment in our institutions, state pension, ensuring that future investments prioritize clean, renewable energy and community resilience.
The collective power of these groups is critical. Together may we move away from profit-driven exploitation into a future rooted in sustainability and health. If you wish to be more involved in our divestment campaign work, please reach out: water@waterspirit.org