Carrying the Spirit of Aloha: Pahonu’s Journey for Climate Justice in Hawai‘i
For Pahonu C., a Native Hawaiian youth plaintiff in the groundbreaking Navahine v. Hawai‘i Department of Transportation (HDOT lawsuit, climate justice is more than a fight—it’s a commitment to the land (‘āina), the community, and future generations. After achieving a historic Settlement Agreement with Hawaii’s government and HDOT, Pahonu reflects on the deep cultural values driving this work and the role young people play in shaping a sustainable future for Hawai‘i.
Youth Plaintiff Genesis B. Takes a Stand Against the Climate Crisis
At just 18 years old, Genesis B., a lifelong resident of Long Beach, California, is already confronting the harsh realities of a warming planet. As a plaintiff in the youth-led climate lawsuit Genesis v. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Genesis’s story sheds light on how the climate crisis is impacting young people on a deeply personal level.
Fighting for Montana’s Future: Grace’s Journey for Climate Justice
For Grace, a youth plaintiff in the historic constitutional climate lawsuit Held v. State of Montana, the fight for climate justice is deeply personal. Growing up in Montana, she fell in love with its breathtaking landscapes and the vibrant communities that call it home. Now, through her work with Our Children’s Trust, Grace is using her voice to hold leaders accountable and protect her state—and the planet—for generations to come. In this exclusive Q&A, Grace shares how her passion for climate rights began, her experience as a plaintiff in the first climate trial in U.S. history, and her hopes for a safe and livable future.
From Fighting America’s Climate Case to Lessons in Perú: A Youth Plaintiff’s Journey for Climate Justice
This Hispanic Heritage Month, we proudly highlight Sahara, one of the 21 youth plaintiffs in the constitutional climate lawsuit Juliana v. United States. Sahara is also a college student studying abroad in Cusco, Perú, and in the Q&A below, she shares her perspective on being a youth plaintiff in America’s Climate Case and the climate challenges facing Cusco’s communities.
United for Climate Action: From Wildland Conservation in Utah to Youth-Led Climate Litigation
Fighting the climate crisis through youth-led litigation would not be possible without the support of communities and global partners that fuel the climate movement. On September 4, 2024, the seven youth plaintiffs in the constitutional climate lawsuit Natalie R. v. State of Utah appeared before the Utah Supreme Court to advocate for their right to be heard at trial.