Introducing Jacquelyn Omotalade: Leading the Charge for Climate Investments

Dream.Org is excited to formally introduce our new Climate Investments National Director, Jacquelyn Omotalade. With an extensive background in government affairs and public policy, Jacquelyn brings a wealth of experience and a deep passion for environmental justice to her new role. We sat down with Jacquelyn for a Q&A session to learn more about her background, her interest in the position, and the transformative work of the Climate Investments team.

Q: Jacquelyn, could you share a bit about your background and what led you to the position of Climate Investments National Director?

A: Certainly! I have dedicated my career to the pursuit of environmental justice and equity. My journey began with my studies at Spelman College, where I developed a strong passion for sustainable solutions that empower marginalized communities. I continued to expand my expertise, obtaining a JD from the University of Pittsburgh and pursuing a forthcoming Doctor of Education from Point Park College. Alongside my education, I had the privilege of spearheading groundbreaking environmental policies as the President of San Francisco's Environmental Commission and leading political campaigns focused on sustainability.

Q: What drew you to Green For All and the role of Climate Investments National Director?

A: Green For All's commitment to advancing justice for the communities most affected by poverty and pollution deeply resonates with me. When I learned about the Justice40 agenda and the potential for the $369 billion Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 to benefit these communities, I knew I had to be a part of it. The opportunity to drive transformative change, channel investments through minority-owned businesses, create quality jobs, improve health outcomes, and foster increased opportunities aligns perfectly with my personal and professional values.

Q: Can you tell us more about the Climate Investment Teams and their role within Green For All?

A: Absolutely. Growing up in Southwestern PA, an area plagued by some of the worst air pollution in the country, I witnessed firsthand the detrimental effects of environmental degradation on communities, especially communities of color. This experience ignited a fire within me to advocate for change and seek justice for those impacted. Moreover, my Nigerian heritage played a significant role in shaping my passion for environmental justice. Seeing the devastating effects of oil extraction on Nigerian communities further deepened my resolve to fight for equitable and sustainable solutions. These personal experiences, combined with my education and career in government affairs and public policy, have driven me to take on the role of Climate Investments National Director with the Green For All team. It allows me to leverage my expertise to create meaningful change and ensure that marginalized communities no longer bear the burden of environmental injustices.

The Climate Investments team is at the forefront of implementing Green For All's bold 10-year goal. Our team works to ensure that the substantial investments outlined in the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 are directed toward communities that have historically borne the brunt of environmental injustices. We focus on channeling these investments through minority-owned businesses to promote economic empowerment and create a more sustainable and equitable future while building work and wealth opportunities for people of color.  In addition, we work with federal agencies to ensure that the United States will reach carbon neutrality by 2050. By improving health outcomes, fostering increased opportunities, and addressing the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities, we strive to make a meaningful impact.

Q: What are your goals and vision as the Climate Investments National Director?

A: My primary goal is to maximize the positive impact of the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 and ensure that the communities most affected by poverty and pollution receive the support they deserve. I will work tirelessly to strengthen partnerships with stakeholders, forge alliances, and drive advocacy and social responsibility. Through strategic thinking and a commitment to equity, I aim to create a greener and more inclusive future. It is crucial for us to seize this historic opportunity and transform the landscape of environmental justice.

Q: It's clear that your expertise and dedication make you a great addition to the Green For All team. We're excited to have you on board! Before we wrap up, is there anything else you'd like to share with our audience?

A: Thank you for the warm welcome! I'm incredibly honored to be a part of Dream.Org's mission and to work alongside such passionate individuals. We firmly believe in the power of community engagement and collaboration. That's why we want to hear from you! If you have any questions about our work, the Climate Investments team, or anything related to climate justice and equity, please contact us. I'm eager to address your inquiries and engage in meaningful dialogue and look forward to engaging with the Dream.Org community.  Please feel free to find me in the Dream.org Community Slack or on Twitter, Threads, and Instagram.

Join us in extending a warm welcome to our new Climate Investments National Director, Jacquelyn Omotalade. Her strategic mindset, commitment to environmental justice, and passion for equity make her a critical part of the Green For All team. Stay tuned for more updates and insights from Green For All as we continue our mission to ensure communities most impacted by climate change are the first to benefit from solutions.

Jacquelyn Omotalade (left) with Dream.Org staff and supporters met with Senator Cory Booker's office to discuss key policy priorities.