victoriasreyes

[victoriasreyes]

TRIGGER WARNING: SA

The #metoo movement first began in 2006 with an amazing women named Tarana Burke, who wanted to use this phrase in effort to raise awareness for women who had been abused. Now, it has become the slogan for an anti-sexual harassment movement, expanding each day and ultimately bringing down the men who committed these acts by raising the voices of the victims, while also bringing together victims to understand that it is not their fault and that they are not alone. 

It is because of this movement that women have been able to hold high profile men in politics, business, media and entertainment industries accountable, and suffer the consequences of their own actions. As a result, the entire nation has opened to their eyes to the issue of gender inequity with the collapse of powerful men being astonishing. 

A gender balanced world would be a world where women don’t live in fear of being silenced, objectified, or taken advantaged of. All genders would have access to all the same resources and opportunities, as women would be seen as equals with men and valuable to society. The ability to have control over our own bodies, where patriarchy is non existent. 

For my final project I decided to interview a friend of mine, who I chose to keep anonymous, who has actively been involved in marches and attended workshops about the #metoo movement. I had asked her if she was comfortable sharing her experience, and sharing the influential names that aided her journey to healing.  The #metoo movement is so important for feminism and overthrowing societal structures, as women’s voices are uplifted and heard by others. This movement allows for men to also understand how harmful their role is society can be, if they choose to stay silent and incapable of holding other men accountable, as silence is compliance. This powerful movement is something that everyone should be aware of supporting today.

Here is the link to the Lady Gaga song “Till It Happens To You” https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZmWBrN7QV6Y

[victoriasreyes]

Trees, Mycelial Networks and Community

Weave in your thoughts on this breakthrough research. What are your thoughts on trees as cooperative networks? What can we learn from the trees?

I genuinely enjoyed watching this video of Suzanne’s lecture about how crucial forest and trees are in preserving the ecosystem and dealing with climate change. I like how she describes trees as “super cooperators” as their capacity to self heal and recover readily are because of the regeneration of species, genes, ect. The tree’s underground biological pathways act as the foundation for the forest, so that it can thrive as a singular organism. So now knowing this we can learn that the preservation of these trees can directly impact the entire ecosystem of the forest and biodiversity. Everything works together in the forest, and it is important that humans understand how similarly the trees communicate like ourselves, and we need to act as conservationists.  

 Why do you think trees have entered human consciousness to such a degree in recent years, including pop culture examples like Ted Lasso? 

I feel like a lot of it has to do with this generation and the shift in seeing how harmful the previous generation left the planet, as we are constantly reminded of how the planet is dying, scaring us as we suffer the consequences caused by the previous generations. With technology and social media being utilized as media outlets, we are able to connect with millions of people to discuss and spread awareness about the climate change crisis. Many of these issues we see are caused by deforestation, and other man made issues created. Realizing that humans are the root of many issues as to why the planet is dying leaves this generation to having trees and other natural resources to be prevalent in the human consciousness.  

Choose one of the quotes above and comment.

"Trees live amid an orchestra of organisms. Whispering, gossiping, eavesdropping, all working together in symphonic harmony. Recent research shows that trees are in constant communication with one another through an underground biological neural network made of mycorrhizal fungi." --Suzanne Simard

I loved this quote because of how it can be a concept that humans can understand in describing the communication of trees to maintain their ecosystem. Communication is something that may seem crazy when it comes to things that aren’t capable of being vocal, but this emphasis on how the forest works as a network can allow the understanding of Mycorrhiza mycorrhizae, where plants and fungi work together. It is through this network that plants are able to survive, and as an example the concept of “mother trees” is developed. Seeing the communication that is crucial to the survival of the forest allows humans to become awoken to the importance of preservation. 

 Describe an experience you've had with a tree.

When I was younger I had one specific enormous sycamore tree in my backyard that I was obsessed with. I built mini tree houses at the bottom of it and would lay in the shade for hours admiring the sunlight shining through the leaves. There were several bird nests within its branches, and with the tree being next to my bedroom window, I would wake everyday to the birds singing. I felt very connected to this tree as a kid and remembered telling my parents that this tree can talk, even though of course it was just my imagination. Unfortunately when Hurricane Sandy struck my town, the ginormous branches fell off, knocking down several eclectic cables and almost striking our house. For safety, my parents thought it was best to cut this tree down in case another big storm knocked it down and hit the house. I was sad to see it go but having the many memories with this tree as a child will stay with me forever. 

[victoriasreyes]

Street Art Week

I have only ever publicly protested in political/human rights marches, with signs I created expressing the message I want to be heard, while occasionally adding my own personal artistic touch. If I had time for whatever protest I was attending, I would try to add a unique picture so that my poster would stand out but still have the message read loud and clear. For example, during a women's march I attended, I drew a nsked woman under the words my body my choice. I feel like words itself are art as is it a form of expression and can be perceived in any way. 

LAAMS Lower East Side 

A)I was inspired to take this photo because of the emotional connection I felt with the specific words used. Although not entirely grammatically correct, I understood what it meant to say. This was specifically taken at a dark moment in my life where I felt that I was telling myself that I was not in the right place and that I needed to be more and bigger, basically that I wasn’t enough. I was so depressed and digging myself deeper and deeper into this hole of self hatred, consistently talking down on myself. When in reality, I needed to be listening to my feelings to understand why these feelings were so real. I needed to understand that I was depressed and that instead of digging myself deeper. Listening to my emotions instead of talking down on myself allowed me to pull myself out of this mental state. This artist was completely anonymous to me. I feel like anyone going through a dark time in their life and seeing these words could maybe alter the course of their day into a more positive perspective, as this can be interpreted differently by anyone. 

   B) McCarren Park Greenpoint Brooklyn 

Automatically this rainbow bus caught my eye as I was walking down the streets of Brooklyn after taking myself shopping. What made me capture this photo was that it seemed the only purpose of this bus was for it to be admired for the colorful patterns and bold words saying “Art is Love” painted all around. The hearts around it bring joy to the beholder, and the inside of it was filled with the same creative joyous spread. I wanted to capture this because of the feeling of happiness I felt as it expressed the simplicity of a clear message and colorful pallet. As I do not know the artist behind the creation, I would like to go back to this area and try to see if they have any more pieces like this. 

Canal Street Soho

C)Even though this is a sticker, I felt like this needed to be photographed because of how most native and new New Yorkers would agree to this. Ultimately, most residents would agree that there is no city like New York City, and that this city is like living a beautiful day in hell. Its chaos and face paced environment beats you up in all the right ways, forcing you to be a stronger, more creative individual. The entrancing element of New York city makes people both love and hate where they live, and appreciation of the city is something many people would agree with. Although this is only a sticker, I feel like words can often be used in an artistic form, as it creates dialog. After research, I found that this is possibly a sticker from the clothing store NYON. Fashion itself can also be used as a form of art, so both the sticker and the clothing allows New York to get the appropriate recognition. 

Madison Square Park 

D)I feel like most people familiar with the streets of New York have seen these words all around the different boroughs and throughout manhattan. The font and repeated texts signifies that it is the same artist writing these powerful words. This Queens-raised artist, Leviyev, tags the entire city in an effort to turn it into his own “modern day renaissance”. According to Leviyev from a quote in the article Dream Until Your Its Reality: Why One NYC Artist Will Keep Writing on Sidewalks Until You Follow Your Dreams, Written by Maddie Katz “The whole point of graffiti is it’s an illegal commercial. We don’t have the capital that major corporations have but we have ideas corporations wish they had.” He hopes to leave his legacy in the city and for New Yorkers to work their reality into existence. Everytime I see the tag. I now think of Leviyev and how he wanted his reality of being a legacy to influence the public, being both motivational and artistical. 

Outside of the MOMA

E)Although I am unfamiliar with the artist of these paintings, they were clearly inspired by the infamous Banksy, and his graffiti art offering a commentary on society. I have personally never seen an actual Bansky piece in person, so seeing replicas of his work was something I wanted to capture, especially since it was outside such an important museum. This graffiti master has influenced so much of modern day art, so seeing anyone try to mimic his capabilities is important in understanding that art can be created by any person.

[victoriasreyes]

Sustainable Fashion: Innovators and Outliers

How does Fast Fashion impact you directly? Which celebrity brands are doing the most to address sustainability? Which ones are engaged in greenwashing?

It took me to start going to The New School and interacting with many Parsons students, as well as educating myself on the severity of fast fashion from just following influencers who advocate for sustainability. Within recent months I have made the proactive decision to thrift all my clothing or only purchase from brands that I know are sustainable. Although I know it is better for the sake of the planet, it is difficult to keep up with the expenses of shopping sustainable, since most brands that are sustainable tend to be more expensive. For example, Kate Hudson’s fabletics brand, a brand known for ethical sustainable designs, tends to be on the pricey side, yet use eco-friendly materials to create their clothing. Katie Holmes hair care brand, Alterna Caviar, uses no sulfates and parabens in the composition of products, and is biodegradable.  In terms of greenwashing, which is defined as an unsubstantial claim to deceive consumers into believing that the brand, initiatives and/or products are environmentally sound, there are many celebrities that engage with this concept. A brand that was recently most criticized for this is H&M, using Maisie Williams as their Global Sustainability Ambassador, where people say that the use of celebrity clout was only consumption driven. 

What are your thoughts on mushroom leather? Will vegans be key players in sustainable fashion?

I believe that mushroom leather is most definitely a step in the right direction. According to fibre2fashion.com, is a “vegan-friendly material used as a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to animal leather. Mushroom leather is made from mycelium, the vegetative part of a fungus. A fungus (or fungi-plural) is any member of the group of eukaryotic organisms.” This avoids pollution, the killing of animals, no consumption of resources, and the cost to make it less expensive. Mushroom leather deserves more recognition as it is the sustainable decision for brands, and is so much better for the planet. Vegans will most definitely be a keep player in sustainable fashion, as their ethical decisions and avocation are in the best effort to save the planet. This animal friendly lifestyle is directly a result of the destruction of animal agriculture that plays a role in the suffering of the environment. 

Choose three FACTS from the list above and comment about your own practices with regard to fast fashion and sustainability. Please include photos from your own sustainable clothing brands, thrift store shopping, dumpster sleuthing outside stores, etc. BE CREATIVE!

8. In the United States alone, over 25 million pounds of clothing are ending up in landfills or incinerators each year. 

Personally, I began to religiously thrift all my clothing in the beginning of 2021, which plays a role in avoiding the clothing to be in a landfill or in an incinerator. I also have gotten most of my friends to start shopping sustainably. Some of my favorite thrift stores include Buffalo Exchange, Tired Thrift, and Awoke Vintage. Here is a photo of my sister and I thrifting.

 2. Younger generations are being more cautious about their fashion choices, meaning they could be the ones who lead the change for sustainable fashion.

This fact is something I see first hand all the time. It is amazing to be surrounded by students thrifting, upcycling, or making their own entire wardrobes through sustainable materials. I also see many influencers all the time advocating that this generation needs to go thrifting and start shopping from only sustainable brands.

9. The best way to be more sustainable is by choosing quality pieces that will last a long time over cheaper ones that you know will go out-of-style.

I have always advocated for people to invest in materials that are quality instead of just trendy for the moment. Avoiding buying from brands that are created by only to copy trendy whatever a popular influencer is wearing, such as fashion nova, shein, or forever 21 is a must. I recommend Instead, buying vintage pieces from depop, or theredup, or sustainable brands like CHNGE and Los Angeles Apparel, can save the environment. 

[victoriasreyes]

My Octopus Teacher Film Review

1. What fascinating facts about octopuses did you learn from the viewing? Provide at least 3. 

Watching this heartfelt and impactful film about an unusual friendship created between a human and an octopus, a usually antisocial creature, was emotional to say the least. Craig Foster going back everyday and documenting his every interaction and movements of the octopus to better understand how it goes about living taught me a lot of facts I wasn't aware of before watching this. It was so interesting to see how protective the octopus was as the creature is constantly on survival mode making sure it has a shield or is ready to attack, before it could even trust anything that wasn’t putting them in immediate danger. I also thought it was cool how liveley the octopus was at night compared to the day, as it took advantage of the darkness catching several fish to eat, while in the day it wouldn’t catch any. Lastly I found it fascinating to see how quickly the octopus had recovered from the shark attack that completely ripped off one of her arms. For about a week she was pale and white because of her injury, but she quickly healed and grew back a small arm, with her body being able to get past this difficulty. 

2. Has this film had an impact on your view of the octopus species? How has it changed or expanded? (1-2 paragraphs)

This film has definitely impacted my view of the octopus species and how similar they are to humans. After watching her through the lens of Craige foster, it was amazing to see how her near death experience had made her stronger than before. Humans as well go through these depressive episodes or traumatic events that make it seem like there's no getting better, but with time and healing, you too could come out stronger than ever. I also didn’t know how intelligent the octopus species was before watching the film. The way the octopus hunted for the crab and the lobster, using Craig’s presence to help her catch her prey, or how she waited till the crab thought it was safe again before attacking, really showed me how smart this creature was in accommodating the environment and pursuing the best methods to catch her prey. 

The film in general had made me feel the importance of protecting wildlife animals, and how humans needing to interfere with animals and destroying our environment, is threatening the circle of life as a whole and selfish. Protecting these animals and treating them as equals as we are all members of this planet was a lesson I want this film to relay to others. Being so fascinated by the life of an octopus has given me the motivation to make efforts in conserving aquatic wildlife. 

3. Discuss the film through the lens of interspecies communication. Provide examples of the ways Craig Foster and the octopus interacted. (2-3 paragraphs)

The first example that was probably one of my favorite interactions was when the octopus and Craig were still getting to know each other. It took time just being in her presens and presenting yourself as someone who isn’t a danger to her, by just letting her inspect him to gradually grow more comfortable with him, was a beautiful interaction. Specifically when she climbed onto his hand and stayed touching him, even when he swam up to catch a breath of fresh air. This moment for both Craig and the audience was impactful because it signified that she trusted him with. 

Another example of an interaction that felt intense to watch was after the octopus was attacked by the shark, very weak and slow, you can see how his connection with her affected her after gaining his trust made him feel like he was at fault. Craig saw that she wasn’t strong enough to even catch her own food, and ended up interfering with the natural wildlife and catching food for her. We watched her slowly eat the food and even though helpless, he had still decided to help her. 

Lastly, the most touching interaction was the last physical contact they had, where she had been in a playful mood and decided she wanted to play with Craig, as she felt up against his body while he comforted her. This really showed how connected the two were and was beautiful to watch. 

4. What is anthropomorphism and how could this tendency shape or distort the narrative? (1 paragraph)

Anthropomorphism is the attribution of human characteristics or behavior to a god, animal, or object. This could unfortunately change the narrative of this film because it could steer the beautiful interaction and connection and Craig into the idea that the octopus was only mimicking or obeying Craig's mannerisms. I feel like that shifts the real narrative ovet to one that is false, with the real one being the importance of animal preservation and that humans need to become more sensitized to animals. 

5. Why do you think this film resonated with so many viewers during the height of the COVID pandemic? (1 paragraph)

I feel like the reason this film resonated with so many viewers during the height of the pandemic is because of how awoken the viewers must have felt because of how disconnected we are to the earth around us. Often we don't realize we are all beings that are part of this planet, yet we’re too self obsessed and focused on how we are perceived in the media. People rarely recognize the similarities between themselves and animals and fail to understand how beautiful having a social connection with animals can be. It is also super intriguing to watch the star of the film be a nonhuman creature, an octopus, have such an emotional toll on human beings with teaching a valuable lesson to become sensitized to other wild animals, and respect that they are also important living beings on the planet. 

6. How does this film shift the definition of 'intelligence'? (1 paragraph)

This film shifts the definition of ‘intelligence’ because it alters what humans may define intelligence to be. Intelligence to humans is normally determined by academics or ability to perform a task well. When you're speaking in terms of intelligence for animals, it is seeing how well they can adapt to whatever means necessary to survive. The octopus is an extremely intelligent animal, as we watch her outwit sharks, throw off animals trying to steal her food, and make crabs a fool of themselves. 

[victoriasreyes]

Don't Look Up! FILM REVIEW

1. The film has been described as a "science fiction black comedy". Do you think that is accurate? How would you describe it?

I genuinely enjoyed the movie “Don't Look Up” which had so many of my favorite actors that I admire to present a comedic take on such a  consequential topic. Addressing the seriousness and severity on the impacts of human selfishness that can potentially destroy or end the planet, is something that should definitely be discussed more in this present time because of how our generation is living in it today. I also found it super accurate of how the film conveyed that most people couldn’t care less, and that political, money driven motives, as well as the consequences not being immediate enough, created such ignorance amongst the public. The role of how social media practically controlled opinions and awareness to anything that happens in the world, being either a false or accurate take on issues, was also something that I felt was extremely realistic, while having a list celebrities and influencers be the only people the public care to listen to. Therefore, to call it a “science fiction black comedy” is definitely a valid description of the film. Even with the top scientists screaming in our faces how we need to take action and pay attention, and the public still choosing sides and only listening to what the most popular names in media are saying or just being flat out ignorant, is something that is so globally present today, with the COVID19 pandemic/vaccine being an example. 

2. Why do you think this group of A-list celebrities signed on to appear in this film? Do you think their influence has helped to amplify climate change awareness? 

There is definitely a reason for the certain actors being asked to take a role in this film, being that they are some of the biggest names in Hollywood today. Directors know that the public only cares if they see someone they look up to or idolize caring about it too. It is obvious that they just really wanted people to watch the film. Unfortunately I feel like it may have done the opposite of amplifying climate change awareness, when most people talking on social media have only chosen to watch the film because of big names in it. People did not pay attention to the message it was trying to send, and instead only watched to enjoy a comedy with their favorite actors. 

3. What is your reaction to this meme? Provide a quote from one of these tech CEOs that could have been in the movie.

I have seen this meme all over twitter and instagram as soon as the movie came out, which definitely gave me a good laugh. I feel like this was such an accurate way to describe Peter Isherwell, and all those men were exactly who I was thinking he was being portrayed as. Quotes I think could have been in the movie include:

Elon Musk: “ Attempting to build affordable clean energy products at scale necessarily requires extreme effort and relentless creativity, but succeeding in our mission is essential to ensure that the future is good, so we must do everything we can to advance the cause."

Mark Zuckerburg :The biggest risk is not taking any risk... In a world that is changing really quickly, the only strategy that is guaranteed to fail is not taking risks.”

Jeff Bezos: “We can't be in survival mode. We have to be in growth mode.”

Tim Cook: “Our goal has never been to make the most. It's always been to make the best.”

4. Did the film spur interesting discussions in your community? Provide some examples.

I feel like I had the opportunity to listen to a variety of discussions about the film. To be completely honest most of my friends wanted to only talk about how Timothee Chalambet looked attractive in the film and how it was crazy that he was kissing Jennifer Lawrence. When I went on social media, people were raving about how many big names were in the film. And amongst the film students in The New School, the only conversation I was hearing was how the film could’ve been better in terms of how it was edited or how the lines weren’t creative enough. I rarely heard conversations about the message that the film was sending, which was making me feel a bit annoyed because I too also wanted this awareness for these relevant issues. 

5. Can comedies create more of a social change impact than documentaries? Has this comedy been effective in delivering its climate change message?

Usually I would say having a comedic take on serious topics could be good for awareness, because a lot of comedians, like Trevor Noah, tend to discuss the importance of issues in a light hearted manner, yet would say this worked against the film. I feel like many people unfortunately missed the message the film wanted to be perceived and only focused on the comedy and celebrities. Comedy sadly works against spreading this awareness, and that scaring the public may be the only way the right attention will be perceived.

[victoriasreyes]

Animal Rescue: From Jane Goodall to Cher

What does Jane Goodall have to impart about Hope and how can it help the animals of the world?

Jane Goodall feels that the forest has a powerful spiritual energy that connects with her, and unlike her connection with humans being through verbal communication, her connection with animals is mind to mind. She feels especially connected to chimpanzees in realizing that they recognize people, just as she recognizes them. WIth elegance, she encourages the importance of nature preservation as an honorary member of the World Future Council. She is acknowledging humans to understand the similarities between both animals and people, as humans are the “the worst invasive species”. She stands in representation of hope for future generations to care for animals and wildlife. 

Can celebrities like Cher have an impact on empathy for animals?

Celebrities can absolutely have an impact on empathy for animals, as they are the most influential beings in media. People always follow these individuals they idolize, and in following them, find their own passions and recognize how important some of the things celebrities stand for really are, such as empathy for animals. Celebrities make people want to listen, therefore celebrities can surely have an impact on empathy for animals. 

What is the 6th Greatest Extinction event and how does it relate to the Anthropocene?

The 6th Greatest Extinction event is the Holocene Extinction, which is the ongoing extinction event of species as a result of human activity. Scientists say this is the worst one yet, compared to the previous 5 that took place in the last 450 million years, destroying 70-90 percent of species.  This relates to the Anthropocene because of how human impact has been the reason for it, with humans destroying the earth’s geology and ecosystems. 

What endangered species are you most aware of? How can we help preserve their habitats? (provide a photo)

The endangered species I am most aware of is unfortunately the African Forest Elephant, which is so heartbreaking because elephants are also my favorite animal. To preserve their habitats and help them survive, we must stop illegal killings, reduce ivory trafficking, protect their regions, and create wildlife sanctuaries. 

[victoriasreyes]

Climate Justice, Food Sustainability and Black Lives Matter

Who is Leah Thomas?

Leah Thomas is a young intersectional environmental activist and eco-communicator based in Southern California but originally from Missouri. Connecting her experiences with other women of color to advocate for inclusion in fighting for environmental sustainability is what her main goal is. With many recent racial injustices, such as the Michael Brown case resonating with her, Thomas uses her platforms to advocate for both environmental and social justice. 

What happened at COP26?

COP26 was an annual climate conference, with this one specifically being held in Scotland in November of 2021. Leah Thomas had had hopes of discussing intersectional environmentalism in relation to conversation about climate, to see whether or not it was embedded after the racial awakening of 2020. Thomas instead was bombarded with representatives of the fossil fuel industry who only discussed deforestation regulations and not ramifications of climate change. She was also unable to witness a speech given by past president Barack Obama and take part in the negotiations being made, along with the other environmental activists, because she didn’t not have the classification to do so. 

What is Intersectional Environmentalism and how does it relate to Black Lives Matters (2-3 paragraphs)?

Intersectional environmentalism is an inclusive version of environmentalism that advocates for both the protection of people and the planet. Specifically it works for inclusion, addressing how injustices in different marginalized communities and on the planet are intertwined.  

In relation to Black Lives Matter, Intersectional Environmentalist because it includes BIPOC communities in conversations about environmentalism, linking racism and privilege to the topic, promoting avocation from people of color. Similarly to Black Lives Matter, those voices who have systematically been silenced are now fighting to be heard

Who is Leah Penniman?

Leah Penniman is the co-founder of Soul Fire Farm, working alongside farmers to create international solidarity and teach “perennials, writing, speaking, ‘making it rain,’ and anything that involves heavy lifting, sweat, and soil”. 

What is Soul Fire Farm and why is it important to the climate movement (2-3paragraphs)?

Soul Fire Farm is important to the climate movement because it allows those whose voices have been silenced the opportunity to be heard about the importance of environmentalism. This community is committed to standing against racism and reclaiming agency over the food system faced by BIPOC marginalized individuals. Because of the historical oppression having to do with systemically ingrained issues, such as slavery and racial injustice, the black comunity has been robbed of having a connection to their land. With Soul Fire Farm, that connection can be recreated, by training farmers to become the change they want to see. By feeding and training individuals, this program connects farming and vocal activism. 

Kristy Durman runs a podcast called “Brown Girl Green” where according to the website she invites and has conversations with “a variety of environmental leaders and advocates about diversity and inclusion as well as creative solutions for coping with the climate crisis”. She is a Filipino American climate activist with a mission to include BIPOC activists in conversations about environmentalism. Through social media, she is dedicated to educating the public about the climate crisis and diversity within the climate movement. 

[victoriasreyes]

Vanessa Nakate: A Bigger Picture BOOK REVIEW

Who is Vanessa Nakate? Why is the photograph important?

Vanessa Nakate is a Uganadia climate change activist, who led a plethora of climate strikes and founded the Youth Future Africa and Rise Up Climate Movement, tackling the unspoken climate concerns in Africa. Nakate had initially been inspired by the infamous Greta Thunberg to take action and begin her own climate movement in Uganda. She recently published her own book in 2021 called A Bigger Picture: My Fight to Bring a New African Voice to the Climate Crisis, essentially speaking about her experience and raising awareness to the issues many Ugandians face because of the climate crisis. The photo provided is significant as it depicts the blatant racism towards Nakate, as she, standing next to another three white climate activists, was the only one cropped out. Not only was Nekate’s representation of her own race completely cut out, but so was the representation of Africa, a continent facing the greatest repercussions from the crisis and elitist World Economic Forum leaders, who have continuously  chosen to ignore Africa’s time of need. They have also chosen to exploit white activists, like Greta, to be the face of this fight.  

Your favorite quote from the book and why.

“If we are to successfully address the climate crisis, we need women in the rooms where decisions are being made that affect the climate.”

This quote in particular stuck out to me, as I am also a woman of color who understands how ignored and shut down our voices are. It is also so inspirational from knowing that black women are probably the most disregarded and mistreated individuals, to have one speaking out on such important relevant issues, making sure she is heard by the masses. 

Respond to this statement: "Nakate is conscious of the power her voice wields, and the world would benefit from listening." (Kirkus Reviews)

This statement is very accurate, as the value of Nakates words hold so much power for being someone that is already so discriminated against as a black woman. She speaks on behalf of both femininity and race on such a crucial topic where the impacts are affecting diverse groups the most. Her voice should be one that stands out amongst most, as she spreads the hostile truth about how we cannot replace loss of extinction, and how we cannot adapt to starvation and lost culture. She is one of the only activists of color giving the brutal honesty we all need to hear. 

What is Rise Up Movement Africa? Discuss its effectiveness through the lens of Nakate's involvement and the power of diverse stories. 

Rise up movement Africa is a platform where African climate activist voices can be heard and expressed to the rest of the world. Originally created in Uganda, the goal for this social media campaign is to unite individuals from Africa and all around the world in spreading each of their own stories to communicate the change they want to see. Having a platform to discuss climate change is important in tackling the world issue. This platform has allowed Nekate to connect individuals (other users) to spread informative links of the most recent issues as well connecting other activists who are also fighting for the change they want to see. 

Write a synthesis of this video to include in your review:

Vanessa Natake is calling people to really pay attention to the suffrage of the world around us because of climate change, and most importantly, to pay attention to the African women fighting at the front lines of this crisis, as they should not be fighting this battle alone. Natake is emphasizing how many sacrifices the people in Africa are having to make in order for their families to survive the ramifications of these impacts, and really calling out western countries for not caring enough to help. The public has completely underestimated the severity of climate change, and Natake is using all the platforms she can to bring awareness to the matter. She is truly inspirational and impactful with her words. 

 Analyze Vanessa Nakate's Instagram feed

https://www.instagram.com/p/CXk5FSbNDYV/

Vanessa Nakete’s instagram is truly inspiring as her passion for saving this planet is so apparent that it motivates her followers and other people who see her posts. She is using as many platforms as she can to be heard and wake the public up, as climate change is destroying the world around us. Protesting with other activists holding up signs saying things like “money will be useless on a dead planet” or “I speak for the trees because they don’t speak” are some extremely eye opening words. As the public, we need to stop making excuses and start paying attention to things that really matter, because eventually, we won't even be able to survive this crisis anymore. Using social media as a medium, being that social media has this generation on a chokehold, is a loud way to get the message out. 

[victoriasreyes]

Celebrity Baby Boom, Human Population and Climate Change

Being someone that is Gen Z myself, I feel like my peers and my cousins who are close to my age have had many discussions regarding whether or not having a baby is worth all the energy and repercussions. However being also Colombian and seeing how Gen Z in South America may have a different approach in that particular region, with regards to most of the country being religious, patriarchy still being very present, and abortion still being illegal, the attitude is definitely a shift from how it is here in America. So I have heard many sides of the argument, however focusing only on America, fertility among Gen Z and millennials has 100% changed compared to older generations, as we are aware of how there are social, economic, and environmental impacts that can alter our decisions and stances. I can say that while living in New York my entire life, it is extremely rare for myself to ever stress the concept of being a mother at my age, whether or not I see a child in my future, unlike older generations, where my grandma already had her second kid at my age. Of course this goes back to education and class/economic issues, as well as the role of race and gender. Nowadays many Gen Z women, with women now having a greater impact on society and being more career driven and independent, can say that there are many other forms of happiness and fulfillment that don’t involve having a child. Stemming from patriarchy, women have been forced by this concept of motherhood being their only impactful role, which is clearly untrue. 

The impact of climate change has hugely altered my personal stances on fertility, as the awareness of this issue scares me for older generations putting our planet through more harm, or hurting other future generations with the planet being as bad as it is. Yet most women I speak to, when they say they do not want a child, do not firstly mention it being because of climate change, but rather for it being to focus on themselves and happiness more. I do still feel like because of social media spreading awareness on climate change and scientific proof explaining the severity of it,  it can still be a reason many women choose to not have children, but not the leading one. 

It was not surprising to me that having one fewer child is 73 times more effective for the planet and animals than being vegan. As we see many countries around the world attempting to control population growth, and evidence of individuals' daily habits being as damaging to the planet as they already are. Of course veganism is absolutely helping, but humans are the leading reason this crisis is so prevalent. 

My response to the comments made by Pope Francis are that they seem a bit hypocritical, as he is continuously photographed with dogs or pets, but then judging those who choose to not have a child claiming they “replace” it with that pet. I feel like his second comment may stem more from patriarchy and religious beliefs, rather than actually understanding the relationships between humans and animals. Catholicism has always obsessed over the idea of having kids as gifts from God, so it makes sense why he has this attitude, yet I disagree. I myself have always felt like my dog was my best friend, and that there is a beauty between the bond of pets and owners, since there is no mutual language. 

As celebrities are already idolized, celebrity baby news tends to give other people “baby fever” when you see someone so successful that you look up to with a child. The unrealistic life of a celebrity can influence others into wanting what they have, yet people disregard that they have the finances and the stability to have a child. So yes people do feel the pressure but forget that the media only shows the highlights of having a luxury lifestyle. 

Women should absolutely have more agency over their fertility decisions, it is literally their own body. Fertility for women tends to always be such a controversial subject in the political world, with recent laws passed in 19 different states either banning or severely restricting abortion, the rights over a women’s body are under the control of male politicians. It is also upsetting to see how expensive it may be to even consider other options to prevent pregnancy, making it impossible for low income societies to ever consider them. There are so many different circumstances and reasons as to why a woman does not want to conceive, yet women have continuously been oppressed and neglected by patriarchal ideologies. Women should 1000% be given the option to affordable methods deciding fertility, and should also have the ability to choose whether or not they want to become a mother. 

My response to Elon Musk is that it is dangerous to be such a highly influential person and be spreading information that isn’t true to the public. Some part of me almost feels like his comments are selfish as it is evident his companies as well as other large corporations run by the top 1%, need more people to work for them, so that they can profit and acquire domination. The population decrease should not be the major issue Elon should be focused on, and with evidence of climate change being less at risk if we have less children, it would be doing more good than harm.