Amplifying the voices of people who care about life on Earth
hamburger menu hamburger menu

Special Collections:
Equal Rights for Women and Girls

Equal Rights for Women and Girls
Opening Keynote and Panel 1: Women on the Frontlines WECAN Assembly March 31, 2026

On March 31, 2026, the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted the "Women’s Momentum Assembly for a Just Fossil Fuel Phaseout." This virtual global event gathered diverse women leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss challenges and solutions for an equitable transition away from fossil fuels, in preparation for a historic government meeting in Colombia. Learn more about the assembly here.

WECAN Executive Director Osprey Orielle Lake delivered the opening keynote, followed by a powerful panel, "Women on the Frontlines: Ending Extraction of People and Planet," featuring Indigenous leaders and climate activists from around the globe.

Additionally, explore WECAN's report on the gendered and racial impacts of the fossil fuel industry here.

Mary Robinson & Panel 2 of 3: Government Leaders for Fossil Fuel Phaseout – WECAN March 31 Assembl

On March 31, 2026, the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted the "Women’s Momentum Assembly for a Just Fossil Fuel Phaseout." This virtual event gathered diverse women leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss equitable transition solutions, preparing for a historic government meeting in Colombia. Details: WECAN Assembly

Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, delivered a powerful intervention. The "Government Leaders For A Fossil Fuel Phaseout" panel followed, co-hosted by the Fossil Fuel Treaty Initiative and Parliamentarians For a Fossil-Free Future, featuring diverse global leaders.

Further WECAN reports: "Prioritizing Care Work Can Unlock a Just Transition for All" (Care Report); "How Local Community Power is Central to a Just Renewable Energy Shift" (Renewable Energy Report).

Panel 3 of 3: Building a Just Transition, and Alysia Reiner – WECAN March 31 Assembly

On March 31, 2026, the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted the virtual “Women’s Momentum Assembly for a Just Fossil Fuel Phaseout.” This strategic global event brought together diverse women leaders, policymakers, and advocates to discuss challenges and solutions for an equitable transition away from fossil fuels, in preparation for a historic government meeting in Colombia.

The Assembly featured a panel titled “Building a Just Transition,” with speakers including Tasneem Essop, Mela Chiponda, and Eriel Tchekwie Deranger. Actress and activist Alysia Reiner also delivered an intervention, and Osprey Orielle Lake provided closing remarks. Learn more: wecaninternational.org/woma-2026

Women's Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN) International Live Stream

Women’s Momentum Assembly for a Just Fossil Fuel Phaseout – March 31, 2026

WECAN is hosting the "Women’s Momentum Assembly for a Just Fossil Fuel Phaseout," a virtual global assembly bringing together diverse women leaders. This event precedes the First Conference on Transitioning Away from Fossil Fuels and is a strategic preparation for an historic government meeting in Colombia.

During the assembly, policymakers, frontline leaders, and advocates will discuss challenges and successful solutions for an equitable path to end the fossil fuel era. For interpretation in Spanish, Portuguese, French, and English, join the live Zoom webinar: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_oUL1y0NKQNaM44gvYwM7OA

Nell Bernstein on the Successful Fight to Close Youth Prisons

Over the past 20 years, youth incarceration has plummeted by 75% as states closed prisons and reformed policies. In her new book, *In Our Future We Are Free*, journalist Nell Bernstein dissects this transformation. She chronicles the forces that moved us from a "moral panic" to a time when youth prisons are rapidly fading.

Bernstein's book highlights the pivotal role of imprisoned youth, mothers, activists, and even prison officials in challenging the "racist brutality of youth prisons" and closing institutions. Join Nell Bernstein and moderator Chesa Boudin to learn how this coalition reformed a "racist and destructive institution" and what other social movements can learn from their struggle.

Rebecca Solnit: Hopelessness is a luxury

Rebecca Solnit, a renowned writer, historian, and influential feminist thinker, authored "Men Explain Things to Me." This essay famously articulated an experience shared by millions of women worldwide.

 

In a conversation with writer Marina Espasa, Solnit reflects on contemporary feminism, the narratives perpetuating inequality, and the urgent need to collectively rethink our relationships with nature, culture, and one another.

#TeamITU: Maud Abaa on building an inclusive digital future

The International Telecommunication Union (ITU) addresses a critical digital gender gap. By 2025, an estimated 250 million fewer women than men will be connected to the internet. Maud Abaa underscores the vital importance of closing this disparity.

Discover more about ITU's efforts and initiatives by visiting their website: https://www.itu.int/160/.

Women in Action for Climate Justice & a Just Transition: Path to COP30 & Beyond - Climate Week 2025

An event titled "Women in Action for Climate Justice and a Just Transition: Path to COP30 and Beyond" brought together diverse global women leaders. They highlighted the importance of a Just Transition and presented comprehensive, intersectional strategies to advance community-led climate solutions, phase out fossil fuels, protect democracy, and strengthen the climate justice movement.

Discussions focused on critical topics such as forest protection, reforestation, gender-responsive climate policies, fossil fuel resistance, food sovereignty, Indigenous and human rights, Rights of Nature, and strategic campaigns for COP30 and future climate action.

Prominent speakers included Thilmeeza Hussain (UN), Eriel Tchekwie Deranger (2024 Climate Breakthrough Award Winner), Bridget Burns (WEDO), Tzeporah Berman (Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty), Colette Pichon-Battle (Taproot Earth), Jozileia Kaingang (ANMIGA), Taily Terena (2025 Global Citizen Prize Winner), and Casey Camp-Horinek (Ponca Nation Environmental Ambassador). The event was moderated by Osprey Orielle Lake, Founder and Executive Director of Women’s Earth and Climate Action Network (WECAN).

A!oracle a Day

The documentary "A Miracle A Day" portrays the All Bengal Women's Union Welfare Home in Kolkata, India. Founded in 1932, this thriving refuge provides a safe haven for 150-200 girls, women, and babies—from infants to the elderly—offering escape from brothels, trafficking, poverty, and abandonment. It serves as a modern example of institutions depicted in the acclaimed film "Lion."


The home offers essential food, clothing, shelter, education, and vocational training, supported by dedicated staff and volunteers. "A Miracle A Day" is an uplifting testament to the human spirit's capacity to surmount obstacles and transcend adversity.


Deborah Harse, Director

Just Transitions — Panel 10 of 25

The "Just Transitions" panel took place on June 25, 2025, as part of the Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond, hosted by the Women's Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) from June 23-28. Panelists included gina cortés valderrama (Colombia), Lorraine Chiponda (Zimbabwe), Serena Mendizábal (Canada), Ayshka Najib (UAE), and Margaret Kwateng (USA).

Organized by WECAN, the Assembly convened over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. Across 25 unique panels, speakers presented diverse visions, projects, and strategies to accelerate a bold and transformative path toward a healthy and just world.

Climate Finance for Climate Justice — Panel 5 of 25

The panel, "Climate Finance for Climate Justice," was held on Monday, June 23, 2025, during the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond. Hosted by the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) from June 23-28, 2025, the session featured experts from organizations including Third World Network, Oil Change International, Latindadd (Latin American and for the Caribbean Network for Social, Economic and Environmental Justice), and Tax Justice Network Africa.

Organized by WECAN, the Assembly brought together over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers representing 50 countries. Across 25 unique panels, speakers showcased diverse visions, projects, and strategies to accelerate a bold and transformative path towards a healthy and just world.

Impacts of the Fossil Fuel Industry in North America — Panel 12 of 25

The Women's Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted its Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond from June 23-28, 2025. This event gathered over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries to share diverse visions and strategies for a just and healthy world across 25 panels.

A significant panel, "Impacts of the Fossil Fuel Industry in North America," took place on June 25th. Featured speakers included Sharon Lavigne (RISE St. James), Tara Houska (Giniw Collective), Nalleli Cobo (People not Pozos, South Central Youth Leadership Coalition), and Dr. Laalitha Surapaneni, a physician.

Grounding Principles For Climate Justice, Rights, & Democracy with a Special Opening â€

"Grounding Principles For Climate Justice, Rights, and Democracy" was a key panel at the Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond. Held on June 23, 2025, this session featured Osprey Orielle Lake (WECAN Executive Director), Casey Camp-Horinek (Ponca Nation, WECAN Board Member), and Zukiswa White (Social Justice Consultant).

The Women's Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted the Assembly from June 23-28, 2025. It united over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. Across 25 panels, participants presented diverse visions and strategies to accelerate a transformative path toward a healthy and just world.

Divestment Movements & Transitioning Away From Fossil Fuels — Panel 15 of 25

The Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond, hosted by Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) from June 23-28, 2025, convened over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. The assembly featured 25 panels showcasing diverse strategies for a healthy and just world.

One key panel, “Divestment Movements & Transitioning Away From Fossil Fuels,” held on June 26th, included experts such as Roishetta Sibley-Ozane, Heffa Schücking, Olivia Bisa Tirko (Chapra), Ayumi Fukakusa, and Michelle Cook (Diné). They discussed accelerating a bold, transformative path away from fossil fuels.

The panel “Feminist Frameworks For Global Climate Justice” was held on Monday, June 2

The panel "Feminist Frameworks For Global Climate Justice" was a key session during the Women's Earth and Climate Network (WECAN)'s Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond, held June 23-28, 2025.

 

This assembly convened over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. Across 25 unique panels, participants showcased diverse visions, projects, and strategies to accelerate a transformative path toward a healthy and just world.

The panel “No Greenwashing: Rejecting False Solutions to the Climate Crisis” was held

The Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) hosted the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond from June 23-28, 2025. A key panel, “No Greenwashing: Rejecting False Solutions to the Climate Crisis,” was held on June 23rd.

 

This panel featured a diverse group of international experts. The Assembly convened over 125 grassroots women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. Across 25 unique panels, participants showcased diverse visions and strategies for a bold, transformative path to a healthy and just world.

Building a Healthy & Thriving Future: Food Sovereignty — Panel 7 of 25

The Global Women's Assembly for Climate Justice, hosted by the Women's Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) from June 23-28, 2025, featured a key panel: "Building a Healthy & Thriving Future: Food Sovereignty."

This panel brought together diverse global leaders, including Kahea Pacheco (Kanaka ʻŌiwi), Mariann Bassey Orovwuje, Monique Verdin (Houma Nation), Wilma Mendoza (Mosetén), and Yasso Kanti Bhattachan (Thakali). The Assembly united over 125 grassroots women leaders, advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries, sharing visions and strategies for a just and healthy world across 25 unique panels.

The panel “Women For Forests: Protection & Reforestation: Part 1” was held on Mon

The panel “Women For Forests: Protection & Reforestation: Part 1” took place on Monday, June 23, 2025. It was part of the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond, hosted by the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN) from June 23-28, 2025.

 

Organized by WECAN, the Assembly united over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders, global advocates, and policymakers from 50 countries. Diverse panelists, including Indigenous leaders and climate activists from various regions, shared visions and strategies across 25 unique sessions to accelerate a transformative path towards a healthy and just world.

The panel “Narratives Matter: Social Media And Stories As A Tool For Climate Action And Edu

The panel “Narratives Matter: Social Media And Stories As A Tool For Climate Action And Education” was held on Tuesday, June 24th, during the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond hosted by Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN), June 23-28, 2025.
PANELISTS:
Priscila Tapajowara (Tapajo), President of Midia Indigena Association, Brazil
Vanessa Nakate, Director, Tard Foundation, Uganda
Laura Cook, Special Projects Lead, Project Dandelion, United Kingdom

Harriet Shugarman, Advisory Council Chair, Our Kids Climate, Turtle Island/USA

Organized by the Women’s Earth and Climate Network (WECAN), the Global Women’s Assembly for Climate Justice: Path to COP30 and Beyond brought together over 125 grassroots and frontline women leaders in all their diversity, global advocates, thought leaders, and policymakers representing 50 countries from around the world. During 25 unique panels, speakers showcased a diverse array of visions, projects, policy frameworks, campaigns, and movement strategies with which we can accelerate a bold and transformative path to a healthy and just world.

EarthSayers are a beacon of hope for our planet. By amplifying the voices of those who care deeply about life on Earth, it empowers individuals and communities to take meaningful action”
— Dr. Elena Rivera
Environmental Scientist and Advocate
 

What EarthSayers stands for

Discover Diverse Voices on EarthSayers

Unlike algorithm-driven platforms that push you into a content bubble, we ensure you hear a variety of perspectives from scientists, activists, Indigenous leaders, business innovators, and everyday citizens working toward sustainability.

 

Learn Why We Care

EarthSayers CINEMA

Watch, learn and lead—sustainability starts with you.

The Thinking Game | Full documentary | Tribeca Film Festival official selection

“The Thinking Game” is the inside story of DeepMind's groundbreaking AI research, culminating in the Nobel Prize-winning AlphaFold breakthrough. Filmed over five years by the award-winning team behind "AlphaGo," this documentary explores co-founder Demis Hassabis's lifelong pursuit of artificial general intelligence and the rigorous scientific journey from mastering strategy games to solving the 50-year-old protein folding problem.

Following its world premiere at the Tribeca Festival, "The Thinking Game" is now available to watch for free. For those interested in hosting a screening for a classroom, community, or workplace, visit: rocofilms.com/films/the-thinking-game/.

 

EarthSayers Cinema on LinkedIn

The Thinking Game | Full documentary | Tribeca Film Festival official selection