Rep. Barbara Lee Introduces Legislation to Address the Global Climate Crisis
Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Barbara Lee (CA-13) introduced two bills, the Women and Climate Change Act of 2021 and the Resolution Supporting the Teaching of Climate Change in Schools, aimed at mitigating the impact of climate change on women and girls around the world and encouraging the federal government, states, schools, and community organizations to teach climate change in appropriate programs and activities.
“As we face a global pandemic and economic crisis, it is more important than ever that Congress renews its commitment to fighting climate change and ensuring the economic security and health of vulnerable communities around the world.
“These pieces of legislation address the disproportionate impact climate change has had on communities of color, exacerbating social, physical, and economic health disparities due to the historical divestment of certain communities.
“Climate change is worsening public health epidemics and is leading to drought, hunger, and increased disease. Conflict and displacement due to climate change has led to violence and sexual exploitation against women, as well as increased health risks and mortality rates. For too long, women have been excluded from key climate change policy decisions despite being especially vulnerable.
“That’s why I am proud to reintroduce the Women and Climate Change Act of 2021 to empower women in economic development planning and international climate change policies and practices to help communities around the world become healthier and safer.
“In order to address the global climate crisis, we must also ensure that young people are learning about the impacts that humans have on the climate, for the good of our generation and all future generations.
“It is crucial that Congress passes my Resolution Supporting the Teaching of Climate Change in Schools to encourage the Federal Government, States, localities, nonprofit organizations, schools, and community organizations to bring climate change education to our communities.”
The Women and Climate Change Act of 2019 (H.R. 1880/S. 868 in the 116th Congress) was endorsed by the Sierra Club, Planned Parenthood, and the Women’s Environment and Development Organization.
The Resolution Supporting the Teaching of Climate Change in Schools (H.Res.574 in the 116th Congress). The resolution was endorsed by: American Federation of Teachers, Global Oneness Project, National Association of Geoscience Teachers, Mom’s Clean Air Force, National Children’s Campaign, National Center for Science Education Principles for Responsibility Investment, Paleontological Research Institution, Rethinking Schools Students for Climate Action, Sierra Club, Teacher’s Advocacy Committee.