Catalyzing Clean Energy and Climate Justice in a Time of Crisis
The New School’s Earth Day 2025 Keynote Event
WHAT:
At this pivotal moment, frontline communities continue to push for bold, equitable climate solutions — but how do we sustain the momentum and advance a just, clean energy transition?
This dynamic, solutions-focused panel will spotlight real-world, community-led projects driving energy justice. Panelists will share insights on what’s working, what’s next, and how we keep building power despite systemic challenges.
WHO:
Moderator
Dr. Tony G. Reames – Tishman Professor of Environmental Justice, Associate Professor at the University of Michigan, and former Deputy Director for Energy Justice at the U.S. Department of Energy
Panelists
Ajulo Othow – CEO/Founder of EnerWealth Solutions, a solar and storage development company creating equitable, sustainable opportunities in rural communities. Ajulo is a Tishman Center EJ Disrupt Design Fellow and Grist Fixer 2024.
Mayor Rey León – Mayor of Huron, California, and founding executive director of The LEAP Institute (Latino Equity Advocacy & Policy), advancing climate justice, clean energy, and community development in California’s Central Valley; Grist Fixer 2019.
Enei Begaye (Diné & Tohono O’odham) – Executive Director of Native Movement, longtime Indigenous organizer, and advocate for environmental, economic, and climate justice; co-founder of the Fairbanks Climate Action Coalition and Black Mesa Water Coalition.
Special Performance
Taina Asili – The event will begin with an electrifying, soul-stirring performance by Taína Asili, a dynamic singer, composer, interdisciplinary artist, and educator who carries on the traditions of her Puerto Rican ancestors. Her latest work, Fever Pitch, is more than a performance — it’s a celebration, a ritual, and a bold vision for a just and sustainable world.
WHEN:
Wednesday, April 23, 2025, from 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm (EDT)
WHERE:
Tishman Auditorium, 63 5th Avenue
New York, NY
THE NEW SCHOOL
Founded in 1919, The New School was established to advance academic freedom, tolerance, and experimentation. A century later, The New School remains at the forefront of innovation in higher education, inspiring more than 10,000 undergraduate and graduate students to challenge the status quo in design and the social sciences, liberal arts, management, the arts, and media. The university welcomes thousands of adult learners annually for continuing education courses and public programs that encourage open discourse and social engagement. Through our online learning portals, research institutes, and international partnerships, The New School maintains a global presence.
MEDIA CONTACT:
Merrie Snead, Senior Manager of Communications
sneadm@newschool.edu