PCC joins global climate justice movement, launches a week of Earth-focused events
Photos and story by James Hill
This April, Portland Community College is participating in the Worldwide Climate & Justice Education Week for the first time, joining institutions from more than 40 countries in a global effort to educate and inspire action on climate justice. From April 7–13, PCC will host a week of virtual and in-person programming, aimed at building awareness, community and solutions for climate challenges.
Electrical charging stations at the Columbia County Center.
Throughout the week, students, staff, and the public are invited to attend a variety of events featuring faculty experts, student-led workshops, and community partners. Topics include the science of climate change, the cultural narratives of Pacific Islander climate warriors, PCC’s Climate Action Plan and strategies for coping with climate grief.
Highlights include:
- “Climate Change 101” with science faculty Matt Glazewski (April 7, online)
- “The Pacific’s Battle to Protect Sacred Spaces” with Mak Porotesano and Faith Kebekol (April 8, Cascade and online)
- “Eco-Anxiety and Climate Grief” with Sociology faculty Kim Smith (April 10, online)
- “Portland’s Critical Energy Infrastructure Hub” with Katri Laukkanen (April 11, online)
To encourage participation, students who attend an event and complete a follow-up survey will be entered into a drawing for one of four $50 gift cards.
An example of courses being offered include, “Communicating Climate Science Effectively,” 5:30-7:20 p.m., Wednesdays, April 2-16 at the Southeast Campus. In this engaging three-week course, participants will learn how to clearly and confidently communicate the science and impacts of human-caused climate change—both globally and locally.
This programming will build momentum leading up to PCC’s annual Earth Week celebration, taking place April 21-25.
“This year, we’re excited to connect PCC to a broader international effort while continuing our tradition of meaningful local engagement,” said Briar Wray, Associate Dean of Sustainability Strategies. “It’s about inspiring change, both globally and here at home.”
More Resources:
- For full event details and registration links, visit the event’s webpage.
- Or visit the PCC Sustainability webpage for more details on year-around opportunities.
- For more on Worldwide Climate & Justice Week, check out https://www.worldwide-climate-ed.org/
About James Hill
James G. Hill, an award-winning journalist and public relations writer, is the Director of Public Relations at Portland Community College. A graduate of Portland State University, James has worked as a section editor for the Newberg Graphic... more »