Announcing the Green is the New Black Symposium

In the recent years, the phrase “Green Is The New Black” has been used in many areas of today’s society from the environmental movement to the fashion industry. Many people have different interpretations of this simple phrase. Some say it refers to the increasing awareness about the need to transition from a fossil fuel based economy to a clean energy economy while others say it is just a fashion statement that refers to what is “hip and trendy.” 

Today, the African-American community is adding a new connotation to the phrase, “Green Is The New Black.” In a recent article in the Chicago Tribune, Rev. Otis Moss III, pastor of Chicago's Trinity United Church of Christ, said that “green is the new area of social justice for our community.” The green movement, similar to the Black Power movement of the late 60’s and 70’s, is calling African Americans to return back to ideals and values of their ancestors. Maulana Karenga, professor of scholar/activist and creator of Kwanzaa, reminds us of this legacy when he says, “A key theme in African religion is the profound respect for nature. Nature is not only respected because of its association with God, but also because of its relevance to human kind. The stress, then, is to show it due respect, to live in harmony with it and the universe, and not abuse it.”

On February 23rd from 3-5pm, Green For All and Howard University in partnership with Black Enterprise magazine and dozens of businesses and organizations are acknowledging this legacy by honoring the contributions that people of African descent have made – and continue to make in the fight for a more sustainable planet and equitable society.

We hope to further the conversation among the Historically Black Colleges and Universities community about the rapidly growing green economy and how it can be leveraged to solve environmental and economic issues facing the black community. Our goal is to inspire college students, faculty and members of the surrounding community to act powerfully to usher in a green, just future for their campus and their surrounding communities.  The day’s events include an “opportunity fair” featuring dozens of businesses and organizations offering jobs and internships for attendees.  This will be followed by a free to the public “networking dinner” featuring dynamic speakers and performers and delicious local organic meal for all. Please join us at this event that not only honors the past, but also builds toward a just green future for all.

To ATTEND, text: GREENBLACK to 25827