On September 12th, SAPHA took part in a dynamic AAPI Climate Justice panel hosted by the National Council of Asian Pacific Americans (NCAPA), featuring voices from organizations such as the Asian Pacific Environmental Network (APEN), United Territories of Pacific Islanders Alliance Washington (UTOPIA WA), National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA) and the South Asian Public Health Association (SAPHA). Thoin Begum represented SAPHA’s Climate Health Taskforce as a panelist, emphasizing the deep connections between climate justice and health equity, and the specific challenges faced by South Asian communities due to environmental injustices, like poor air and water quality in ethnic enclaves.
The panelists collectively highlighted the intersectionality of climate justice, noting that it encompasses not only environmental health but also social justice, mental health, and community resilience. Speakers discussed the importance of including diverse AANHPI voices in the climate movement, recognizing cultural knowledge, and advocating for community-driven solutions. The conversation also stressed the mental health impacts of climate anxiety and the need for intergenerational collaboration to drive sustainable change. SAPHA remains dedicated to ensuring that South Asian perspectives are represented in the fight for climate justice and health equity. You can watch the discussion here: Click here
