Jacqui Patterson is a pioneering advocate of climate justice and social equity. As the founder and Executive Director of The Chisholm Legacy Project, she has dedicated her career to empowering Black communities disproportionately affected by climate change. The project is a resource hub, connecting frontline communities with the tools they need.
Patterson’s journey into environmental justice began during her tenure with the Peace Corps in Jamaica, where she witnessed firsthand the impacts of environmental degradation on marginalized communities. This experience propelled her into a career addressing the systemic inequalities that exacerbate climate vulnerabilities.
Before establishing The Chisholm Legacy Project, Patterson served as the Senior Director of the NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Program. In this role, she led initiatives that highlighted the link between environmental issues and civil rights, advocating for policies prioritizing Black communities’ health and well-being.
Shirley Chisholm’s legacy deeply inspires Patterson’s work, encapsulated in the famous quote, “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” She ensures that marginalized populations sit at the table and take charge of shaping solutions.
