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Axé UPROSE Familia,
There is nothing like summertime in Brooklyn - if you know you know. Piragüeros and coquito on the corners, quenepas falling off the backs of trucks, freestyle and salsa blasting from kitchen windows scenting the neighborhood with the smell of sofrito and hip hop setting the rhythm for the weeks ahead. We roll into July, not only embraced by the warmth of Father Sun, but also lifting, celebrating and embracing difference and July is Disability Pride Month.
Many of you know I have limited mobility and need a wheelchair and support to go more than a block. My personal goal is to pop wheelies through the climate movement, but truth be told, navigating my way through misconceived perceptions and structural challenges has me raising questions of how climate disruption will impact people with disabilities and whether anyone is incorporating these time sensitive concerns into planning. At UPROSE, we celebrate the strength of individuals with disabilities and reinforce our dedication to building a world that champions inclusivity, accessibility, and justice for all.
Amidst a heatwave forecasted to set records in New York and nationwide, we are reminded of the critical battle for climate justice we are facing. This month, our focus zeroes in on two intertwined environmental challenges that escalate with rising temperatures: heat vulnerability and deteriorating air quality. Our most marginalized communities, including those with disabilities, are disproportionately affected by these issues. The risks range from children in overheated neighborhoods to our elderly and disabled neighbors in residences lacking proper cooling—these conditions are not only harsh but life-threatening. Furthermore, elevated temperatures lead to increased ground-level ozone, aggravating respiratory conditions and affecting those with chronic health issues.
While these challenges might appear daunting, we at UPROSE hold a steadfast belief in the power of community, unity and collective care, especially for the most vulnerable. Disability Pride Month enhances this perspective, highlighting diversity and the strength fostered through inclusivity. This month serves as a crucial reminder for all of us to ensure our climate justice initiatives are attuned to the needs of people with disabilities.
This July, we are galvanized to fiercely address these urgent matters. We are committed to advancing solutions that cool our cities, enhance air quality, and safeguard our most vulnerable populations. De corazón, we invite you to join our art build, Wednesday July 17, in preparation for our September 28th Climate Justice Lives Here action. Let's come together to enjoy the summer, channel our artistic spirits, and paint a collaborative banner that embodies our dedication to climate justice and brings attention to the climate justice solutions we are operationalizing. More details will be provided below.
We are here to protect and fight for all we hold sacred, and we are blessed to do it with your loving support. Come with us on this journey to ensure a just, safer, more equitable world.
Continuing the good fight!
Elizabeth and the UPROSE team
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