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
MEDIA CONTACT:
Merrie Snead, Senior Manager of Communications
sneadm@newschool.edu