Lecture Focuses on the Political Power of Young Voters

Heather White, founder and CEO of One Green Thing, presented “Green Civics: Democracy Isn’t a Spectator Sport,” at Meredith College on September 10, 2024. The lecture was part of the Summer Reading Program theme, “Strong Voices: Empowering Student Citizenship.”

White, a nationally recognized conservation and environmental policy expert, geared her comments toward inspiring young voters.

“It is up to all of us to understand what our role is in democracy,” White said, before sharing that she got her start in politics by serving as recount attorney for Al Gore’s presidential campaign. That 2000 presidential election, where just 537 votes made the difference in Florida, was one example she provided to show the importance of every vote.

White’s nonprofit, OneGreenThing.org, tackles eco-anxiety through joyful daily action, inspiring culture change for policy solutions. Meredith College alumna Emily Necessary Fowler, ’98, serves as chief of start up for One Green Thing. 

Because of her focus on environmental issues, White centered her talk on how climate concerns impact voters. 

The principles of what White called “Green Civics” included becoming an informed voter who understands candidate positions on environmental and conservation issues and participates in local, state, and federal elections and governance. It also includes “imagining what the Green future can be if we get it right.”

According to White, climate change is the number one issue for Gen Z voters globally. 

“We have the climate change solutions we need. What is missing is the political will,” White said. “That’s where we all come in. Let’s do all we can to participate in our democratic process and create a healthier, greener, and more just future.”

This event was made possible with support from the Environmental Sustainability Program, School of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, and Carla Ashley, ’78. 

Visit meredith.edu/srp-2024  for more information about events and activities Meredith College is sponsoring this semester to promote civic engagement.