Past Council Events

March 27, 2024

South Carolina Democratic Environmental Caucus with Chair Deatrick

We’re organizing for environmental action and victories in November! The South Carolina Democratic Environmental Caucus held a meeting with Chair Deatrick as the keynote speaker. They discussed national climate priorities from policy on cleaner air and water to turning out environmental voters at all levels.

March 25, 2024

Young Democrats Women History Month Environmental Roundtable

Our Chair Michelle Deatrick was honored to be a panelist with four inspiring youth women leaders forging climate progress with the Democratic Party. Watch this great livestream to learn about their experiences, advice, and importance of inclusion in the climate and Democratic movements.

Annika Krovi, High School Democrats of America Chair; Ciara Hart, Young Democrats of Louisiana President; Michelle Deatrick, DNC Climate Council Chair; Dyna Kristine Martinez, Young Democrats of America Executive VP; Carolyn Salvador Avila, College Democrats of America President

March 18, 2024

Chair Deatrick at White House for Women’s History Month

In honor of Women’s History Month, President Biden signed an executive order that would fund better women’s health research, which has been severely underfunded for decades. Chair Deatrick was delighted to be there for this exciting announcement.

February 22, 2024

Michigan Climate Action Network: Community Voices Series

Public power is an important tool for ramping up the clean energy transition. Chair Deatrick spoke about public power and the importance of the clean energy transition as a panelist on this livestreamed event. Watch the replay.

January 4, 2023

Iowa Democratic Climate Caucus Meeting

At the 2024 kickoff meeting of the Iowa Climate Change and Environmental Caucus, Chair Deatrick spoke to a group of committed activists and organizers ahead of the Iowa Democratic Caucuses about the importance of climate as an election issue for turnout and persuasion, and the climate achievements of the Biden-Harris Administration.

December 20-21, 2023

Council Chair at White House and Vice Presidential Holiday Events

Chair Deatrick was honored to celebrate the holidays with President and Dr. Biden at the White House, and with Vice President Harris and Second Gentleman Emhoff at the Vice President’s Residence.

December 16, 2023

Ann Arbor For Public Power Press Conference: Utility Rate Hikes

Reliable, affordable electricity is a human right. Electricity rates are the highest in the Midwest for many Michigan residents. And the electricity is among the least reliable. Recently, the Michigan Public Service Commission approved a $368 million rate increase for large parts of Michigan. Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at a press conference hosted by Ann Arbor for Public Power.

December 11, 2023

Chair Deatrick at Live Collaborators Chat: FRACTURES, a Climate Album

Our Chair’s poetry is featured in a recently released album that explores impacts of fracking. During this live chat hosted by the composer and singer of the album, Chair Deatrick discussed the creative process around environmental art and the making of FRACTURES.

November 14, 2023

The Road to COP28: Livestream with Sen. Markey and Chair Deatrick

Senator Ed Markey (MA) and Chair Michelle Deatrick were panelists at this livestream hosted by the Democrats Abroad Environment and Climate Crisis Council. The discussion centered around the role of the U.S. in upholding global climate goals, fossil fuel subsidies and phase out, climate migration, the key progress made by the Biden-Harris Administration, and more, highlighting the vital roles of U.S. leadership and global cooperation in the fight against the climate emergency. Watch the replay.

October 21, 2023

Chair at UAW Strike in Michigan

The Council stood in solidarity with the UAW strike and released this statement along with other Democratic environmental groups in support. Chair Deatrick joined fellow UAW members on the picket line in Michigan.

October 10, 2023

Council AAPI Director Testifies: Public Hearing on Proposed Colorado Fracking

Council AAPI Director and Colorado resident Howard Chou testified at a public hearing on a proposed 33,000-acre fracking development. Chou highlighted the serious public health and climate concerns of the extraction project’s possible 174 wells, to be drilled horizontally and in close proximity to the vital Aurora reservoir.

October 6, 2023

Panel: Workforce Development and Education on Sustainability

At the inaugural event for the National Sustainability Society, Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke to the importance of investments in sustainability workforce and education, advocating for greening every academic field and for infusing environmental justice and climate perspectives throughout the education and workforce development systems from pre-K to graduate school. The NSS is a new initiative working to grow and evolve sustainability programs in US colleges and universities; to connect sustainability researchers, practitioners, employers, and graduates; and to establish sustainability as a scholarly field.

October 5, 2023

DNC Environment and Climate Crisis Council Fall Meeting, St. Louis

At our packed meeting in St. Louis, Missouri, held during the Fall DNC Meeting, speakers included DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, Minnesota LG Peggy Flanagan, DNC Vice Chair Ken Martin, St. Louis Alderwoman Anne Schweitzer, and Data for Progress Executive Director Danielle Deiseroth, who presented new polling on climate voting. Some key takeaways: Climate change is a top priority for Democratic voters; Democratic voters, young voters, and Black and Latino voters are optimistic that society can meaningfully address climate change; and the overwhelming popularity of key initiatives of President Biden’s historic inflation Reduction Act presents an important opportunity for the Democratic Party and Democratic candidates, who should champion the bill, its impact, and similar climate measures.

September 28, 2023

Launch of the Green New Deal for Public Schools

The Council's Youth Director Paul Presendieu was in Washington, DC for the Green New Deal for Public Schools press conference, joining climate champions Senator Ed Markey, Representative Jamaal Bowman, and John Paul Mejia in support. Learn more here.

September 17-22, 2023

Climate Week NYC

At New York Climate Week, Youth Director Paul Presendieu and Chair Deatrick participated in events addressing climate activism, inclusivity, and justice, including a World Youth Group (WYG) convening hosted by WYG Chair Christo Thomas. Michelle spoke alongside climate leaders from Angola and Namibia in support of WYG’s work toward a UN Resolution upholding universal Climate Education.

September 17, 2023

Ann Arbor for Public Power Panel 

Public power is climate action, as this important panel discussion — held by Ann Arbor for Public Power in solidarity with the 75K+ people attending the March to End Fossil Fuels in NYC — made crystal clear. Watch the conversation with DNC Climate Chair Michelle Deatrick, Seth Berry of PineTree Public Power (Maine public power initiative), Washtenaw County Commissioner Yousef Rabhi, and MI State Senator Jeff Irwin.

August 5, 2023

Newaygo County Democrats Annual Dinner 

Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at the annual dinner for the Newaygo County Democratic Party, with Michigan Planned Parenthood President Paula Greear and Democratic candidate for MI Congressional District 2 Michael Lynch. Michelle was delighted to connect with local Dems to discuss regional climate issues, the climate achievements and leadership by the President and Vice President, and priorities for the 2024 elections.

July 20-23, 2023

Labor Network 4 Sustainability Convening & Meeting with Colorado Dems Environmental Leaders

At the Labor Network for Sustainability Convening, Chair Deatrick met with climate and labor leaders from across the country to explore the critical intersection of labor, workers and the environment. She also met with leaders of the Colorado Democratic Party Energy & Environment Initiative.

(L to R:) Liz Ratzloff, LN4S Co-Exec. Dir. and Chair Deatrick; Joe Uehlein, LN4S Founding President; Elijah Lewis, Colorado Energy and Environmental Initiative and CO Dem Enviro Chair Thomas Lundy.

July 15, 2023

Netroots Panel: “Running on Climate: 2022 Lessons to Help Democrats Win in 2024”

The climate and environmental justice crises are escalating. And so are their importance to voters. Democrats had the best midterm elections in the first term since the Kennedy administration because both the base and less frequent voters turned out to vote on the issues. Chair Deatrick led a discussion on takeaways from 2022 — and why leaning into climate issues is a winning strategy for 2024 and beyond.

Key takeaways:

• Climate will definitely be on the ballot in 2024 — as it was in 2022

• Climate was a winning issue for Democrats in 2022, and will be again in 2024

• How we talk about environment and climate is crucial: keep it local, keep it about people, amplify Dem achievements on environment and climate

June 20, 2023

YDA Convention and Democratic Environmental Caucus

The Young Democrats’ Environmental Caucus is doing impressive work with leadership by Paul Presendieu (also our Council Youth Director) and the other terrific officers. DNC Climate Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was delighted to keynote the meeting of the Environmental Caucus and connect with Young Dems nationwide at the convention.

June 16, 2023

Minnesota DFL Environmental Caucus Gathering

Chair Deatrick co-hosted a gathering with the DFL Environmental Caucus members in Minnesota to discuss local environmental issues, how Democrats can run on climate and how to help them win, and celebrating the work of the DFL Environmental Caucus.

June 15, 2023

Chair & Vice Chair Attended and Spoke at Association of State Democratic Committees Annual Conference

At the annual meeting of the Association of State Democratic Committees (ASDC) in Minneapolis, Chair Michelle Deatrick and Vice Chair David Green spoke about the Council’s role in organizing across the country for climate Democrats. They highlighted the hard work by state Democratic environmental caucuses, key to electing climate champions up and down the ballot.

June 14, 2023

Capitol Dinner with League of Conservation Voters

As a member of Climate Power’s National Advisory Board, Council Chair Deatrick attended the LCV Capitol Dinner in Washington, DC, where environmental groups expressed support for the 2024 Biden-Harris Presidential Campaign. Speeches upholding the importance of urgent climate action were made by President Biden, Senator Nancy Pelosi, Rep. Summer Lee, and many more. Our Chair was also honored to connect with climate champion Rep. Pramila Jayapal.

May 31, 2023

Council on the Road: End Plastic Pollution Campaign in France

As negotiations for a Global Plastics Treaty were ongoing in Paris, Chair Deatrick had the opportunity to visit the Greenpeace campaign to #EndPlasticPollution. We’re so grateful for their hard work and organizing for this critical issue.

May 28, 2023

Environmental Policy Panel at Wesleyan University

Council Chair Deatrick was a featured panelist in a discussion on environmental policy at her alma mater, Wesleyan University. She shared her knowledge and experience on environmental policymaking in the U.S. as we navigate out of the climate crisis and into a sustainable, equitable, vibrant future.

May 26, 2023

Road to Renewables: California Dems Environmental Caucus Meeting

Chair Deatrick spoke at a panel co-hosted by the California Democratic Party's Environmental and Progressive Caucuses focusing on equitably transitioning to 100% renewable energy as soon as possible. Council Chair Michelle Deatrick gave updates on national policy changes and progress, and three Democratic candidates for the U.S. Senate spoke on important environmental and progressive priorities.

May 21, 2023

Chair Deatrick Spoke at Event for Publicly Owned, Renewable Energy

In Ann Arbor, Michigan, Chair Deatrick spoke at an important fundraising and organizing event for Ann Arbor for Public Power, calling out big oil and gas, and unreliable and exploitative utility companies. Chair Deatrick underscored the urgent need for accessible, affordable and renewable energy for all.

April 22, 2023

Earth Day Celebration: Ann Arbor for Public Power

Chair Deatrick keynoted this Earth Day Celebration hosted by Ann Arbor for Public Power, supporting the work of A2P2 for accessible, reliable, renewable energy for all and an end to the excessive power outages, high prices, high profits, and extensive fossil fuel reliance of the area’s current power provider.

April 21, 2023

Chair Deatrick at the White House for Signing of an All-of-Government Environmental Justice Executive Order

President Biden invited Council Chair Michelle Deatrick to the White House for the announcement of major environmental justice initiatives and investments. With other environmental justice and climate leaders, our Chair gathered for the signing of an executive order launching programs that include expanding the Justice40 programs, the first-ever EJ scorecard for federal agencies, steps to counter plastic pollution, and a new branch in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. Several policy recommendations made by the DNC Environment and Climate Crisis Council in our Policy Agenda, became a reality! Gratitude to the Administration and to the EJ champions and organizations that have worked for these big steps forward.

(L to R): In the Rose Garden: EPA Administrator Michael Regan with President Biden. Chair Deatrick with WeACT Founder/Exec Director Peggy Shepard. Congressman Raul Grijalva (AZ-3) with Chair Deatrick.

April 20, 2023

Council Chair Deatrick, Secretary Allison Stephens and Youth Director Paul Presendieu Attend Vice President Kamala Harris’ Earth Day Reception

Council Officers were invited by Vice President Harris to an Earth Day Reception at the Vice President’s Residence, at the Naval Observatory in D.C. Climate and environmental justice leaders from across the U.S. gathered to hear the Vice President’s remarks and Ellie Goulding’s inspirational singing. The Vice President is doing impressive work uplifting climate justice at home and abroad. Watch a snippet of her speech at the event or read about her recent work while visiting the continent of Africa.

(L to R): Vice President Kamala Harris and Chair Deatrick. Hoai-An Pham, Justin Owenu, MI Rep. Abraham Aiyash, Chair Deatrick. WA State Democrats Chair Shasti Conrad, Chair Deatrick.

April 20, 2023

Chair Deatrick on the Road: Reintroduction of Green New Deal and Introduction of GND for Public Health

Congressional climate Democrats announced the reintroduction of the Green New Deal and introduced a new bill, the Green New Deal for Public Health. Both pieces of legislation embody a crucial vision for the future: one of justice, equity, and sustainable living, with no workers or communities left behind. Chair Deatrick was honored to attend a DC press conference for the announcement.

April 14, 2023

Fractures: Environmental Concert Performance

Chair Michelle Deatrick attended the premiere performance of Fractures, a song cycle exploring the human and environmental harms of fracking, and spoke at a post-concert panel. Her poem, “For My Daughter” comprised part of the lyrics. Composed by Frank Horvat and sung (and commissioned) by acclaimed soprano Meredith Hall, Fractures features the work of American and Canadian poets, including Chair Deatrick, who is an award-winning poet. You can read her featured poem here.

Fractures is being recorded as an album. More live performances will be announced.

March 23, 2023

Council on the Road: Southwest Wayne Michigan Dems Meeting

Chair Deatrick was a guest speaker at the SW Wayne (County) Michigan Democratic Club meeting. She discussed the Council’s work, our Earth Month Mobilization, ongoing petitions, other calls to action, and more.

March 22, 2023

Council on the Road: Launch of Environmental Justice for All Act

Chair Deatick was in DC for the press conference announcing the re-introduction of the Donald McEachin Environmental Justice for All Act. Co-sponsored by Rep. Grijalva, Rep. Barbara Lee, Sen. Cory Booker, and Sen. Tammy Duckworth, this legislation is critical to climate justice.

March 21, 2023

Council on the Road: Chair Deatrick at Third Act’s Day of Action

Across the country, activists gathered to protest banks that fund fossil fuel expansion and development. Chair Deatrick attended a demonstration in Ann Arbor, Michigan as part of this national mobilization.

February 23, 2023

Chair Deatrick Met with Florida’s Polk County Democratic Environmental Caucus

Chair Deatrick met with the Caucus, sharing information on the Inflation Reduction Act, the Council, and climate voter turnout and importance.

February 22, 2023

Texas Democratic Party Environmental Caucus Meeting with Guest Speaker Chair Deatrick

As a guest speaker for the Texas Environmental Democrats, Chair Deatrick highlighted climate wins and the strength of environmental voters, the Council’s work, and the primary issues for the Council in 2023, including reducing dependence on fossil fuels, a Climate Emergency declaration, and electing climate champions at all levels.

February 11, 2023

Chair Deatrick Spoke at the Michigan Democratic Party Convention

“We must support workers and unions, and ensure a vibrant environment and a sustainable future.”

For her home state’s Democratic Party Convention, Chair Deatrick was a guest speaker for two caucus meetings. At the Justice Caucus meeting, our Chair highlighted crucial priorities in Michigan, from ensuring access to clean drinking water and implementing the federal Justice40 initiative to labor and wage issues. Climate Justice is the intersection of many types of justice. At the Environmental Caucus meeting, Chair Deatrick discussed the Council’s recent work, our wins from the midterms, and what we’re planning to accomplish in 2023.

February 2, 2023

DNC Environment and Climate Council Winter Meeting, Philadelphia

The Council held a packed, exciting meeting at the DNC Convention in Philadelphia. Chair Michelle Deatrick moderated a terrific conversation, How and Why to Run on Climate-Lessons from 2022. Some key takeaways: 

• Climate is a winning issue. Environmental justice is a winning issue.

• Climate matters to young voters - but don’t underestimate how important it is to voters of all ages. Gen X has the second highest level of engagement on climate change. 

• Last year’s election showed the power of issue-based voting. Give infrequent voters a reason to come out and vote.

• Democrats need to provide training for candidates so they feel comfortable talking about climate and environmental justice issues in their communities and states.

Vice Chair David Green and Youth Director Paul Presendieu spoke, as did special guests and climate champions ASDC President Ken Martin and Minnesota Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan. Watch the Roundtable.

2022

2022 Highlights: Fighting for People and Planet

In 2022, the Council was on the road, on the doors, and in the streets: for people, party and planet. Thank you to everyone who knocked doors, made calls, watched a livestream, and shared climate concerns. Here are some of our wins, favorite moments, and inspiration for 2023.

December 20, 2022

Dems Abroad Livestream: Arts, Climate and Activism

At an inspiring event hosted by the Environment and Climate Crisis Council of Democrats Abroad, our Council Chair Michelle Deatrick read a selection of her environmental poetry, Dash Nesbitt of Dems Abroad ECCC played the viola and Inge Kjemtrup, a professional art critic and Dems Abroad ECCC member, discussed visual arts and climate. An invigorating discussion followed.

Watch the replay here. Chair Deatrick begins reading at 30:55.

December 13-15, 2022

Chair Attended White House and Vice Presidential Events

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was honored to attend a White House Holiday Reception hosted by President Biden and First Lady, Dr. Jill Biden.

Chair Deatrick was also an invited guest of Vice President Kamala Harris and Mr. Doug Emhoff at the Holiday Reception at the Vice Presidential Residence. She had the opportunity to speak with the Vice President about the importance of continuing bold climate policy in 2023 and beyond.

December 7-9, 2022

Council Leadership at ASDC Convention

At the Association of State Democratic Committees Convention, Council Vice Chair David Green and Director of AAPI Engagement Howard Chou spoke at the Convention’s General Session in their roles as ASDC leaders. 

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick’s remarks celebrated progress at the Climate Council and within the Party, stressed the stakes of the climate crisis, and rallied Democrats for the work to win our future.

November 8-December 6, 2022

Council Members Got Out the Vote for Senator Warnock!

DNC Environment and Climate Crisis Council members phone banked for Senator Warnock in the run-off election.

November 30, 2022

Meeting of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council

Testifying to the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council, Chair Deatrick brought recommendations to improve environmental justice efforts by the EPA and the Council on Environmental Quality. She addressed issues of toxic landfill gasses; accessibility and implementation of the Justice40 initiative to ensure at least 40% of federal environmental investments are in underinvested frontline communities; and recommendations to help cities and counties work collaboratively on climate and environmental justice.

November 19, 2022

Chair Deatrick Spoke at Ann Arbor Public Power Event

The Chair spoke at a meet and greet hosted by Ann Arbor for Public Power, a nonprofit advocating for 100% renewable public-owned energy.

Through November 8, 2022

The Council and Democratic Environmental Leaders Got Out the Vote

The dedicated work of Democratic Environmental Caucuses across the country and abroad calling voters, knocking doors, recruiting volunteers, and more contributed to Democratic victories at a scale few predicted. The strong turnout of youth and environmental voters made the difference in many key races.

The DNC Council the Environment and Climate Crisis ran our largest ever midterm effort including:

• Turning out the environmental vote for Democrats up and down the ballot in multiple battleground states.

• Holding more than 20 organizing events in key states including Florida, Texas, Pennsylvania, Michigan, Maryland, California, Alaska and New Mexico.

• Organizing phone banks and outreach events to amplify Democrats’ historic achievements when it comes to fighting the climate crisis.

• A 17-state GOTV effort.

October-November 8, 2022

Council on the Road: Michigan

Continuing the Council’s National Organizing and GOTV Tour, Chair Deatrick spoke at the Ann Arbor Women’s March, of which she is also the founder and chair, about the importance and power of the environmental vote and the profound impact of climate change on women. She also spoke at a water justice rally. In the home stretch before November 8, she supported election efforts in her home state of Michigan, organizing, launching and participating in phone banks, canvasses, rallies and more to get out the crucial environmental vote for Democrats.

October 25, 2022

Youth Democratic Environmental Forum

Chair Deatrick and Youth Director Paul Presendieu were featured speakers at a forum hosted by the Environmental Caucuses of the Young Democrats and College Democrats. This crucial discussion between party environmental and youth Party leaders centered on the power of our votes and how we can rally the leadership needed to address the climate emergency.

October 14-17, 2022

Council on the Road: New Mexico

Chair Deatrick held a listening session with Indigenous and other environmental leaders in Albuquerque, met with energized Democrats and local Party leaders getting out the vote in Santa Fe and Albuquerque, and canvassed for candidates.

New Mexico is on the #ClimateFrontlines, facing fossil fuel air pollution, wildfires, drought and more. It also is ramping up production of solar and wind power and plugging stranded fossil wells with strong Democratic leadership by Governor Grisham, Land Commissioner Richard and others.

October 9-13, 2022

Council on the Road: California

In Northern California, our national organizing and listening tour kicked off with a reception with climate and environmental advocates in Sacramento, attended by CA DNC member Keith Umemoto. Chair Deatrick rallied for affordable, accessible solar energy at the Capitol, met with environmental leaders, and visited an Oakland climate-centered art gallery founded and curated by Council friend and ally Chris Kerr.

Council on the Road: Michigan

October 9, 2022. For our Water Rally. Ypsilanti.

Chair Deatrick spoke on the importance of protecting the Great Lakes and read her poem, “For My Daughter,” which was sent to President Obama by thousands of poets as part of the One Hundred Thousand Poets for Change initiative.

October 8, 2022. Women’s March Ann Arbor Rally.

As a featured speaker and the Founder and Chair of Women’s March Ann Arbor, Chair Deatrick highlighted the importance of this election to health, women’s rights, and the environment: “Women know that environmental and climate issues are public health issues, are economic issues, are issues of racial and gender justice. We know that pollution harms pregnancies, that there is increased gender-based and sexual violence after climate-fed extreme weather… Women’s voices and votes, and the power of the environmental vote, can make the difference in this election.”

September 25, 2022. Public Power in the Plaza.

Chair Deatrick spoke, upholding Ann Arbor for Public Power’s advocacy for public municipal power, and against the private electricity sector’s profiteering, failure to adequately invest in infrastructure and to protect against outrageous numbers of power outages in southeast Michigan, and ongoing pollution of frontline communities: “They use our air as an open sewer.”

September 22, 2022

Sunrise Movement Meeting

At a meeting for Sunrise Movement members in Ann Arbor, Chair Deatrick shared Council updates and discussed the power of environmental voters and the youth climate movement.

September 9, 2022

DNC Climate Council Fall Meeting

In National Harbor, Maryland, the Council held a dynamic meeting at the DNC Convention. Special guests included DNC Chair Jaime Harrison, Co-Executive Director of Greenpeace Ebony Twilley Martin, Maryland Delegate Sheila Ruth, and DNC Native Caucus Secretary Ruth Buffalo. Their remarks addressed environmental justice issues, the climate crisis, Maryland environmental challenges, and an acknowledgement of the history of the land. Attendees shared climate and environmental justice issues from their communities and states. Council Officers gave updates on the Council’s recent work and accomplishments, and plans going forward.

August 20, 2022

Council on the Road: Netroots Panel

Moderated by Chair Deatrick, “How Democrats Can Run on Climate—and Win—in 2022 and Beyond,” was an inspiring and insightful discussion with panelists Representative Summer Lee, Sunrise Movement National Spokesperson John Paul Mejia, and Data for Progress Senior Data Analyst Danielle Deiseroth.

Watch the panel here.

July, 2022

Council on the Road: Florida Democratic Convention and Organizing Events

At the Florida State Democratic Convention, Chair Deatrick spoke at the vibrant Environmental Caucus meeting and other local events. Democratic organizing for climate in Florida is strong and growing.

July, 2022

Council on the Road: Texas Democratic Convention and Organizing Events

Chair Michelle Deatrick met with local environmental and Democratic leaders and Dems Abroad Environmental Caucus Chair Dana Freling, and attended the Texas State Convention, including a standing room only meeting with the Texas Environmental Democrats.

July 7, 2022

California Democratic Environmental Caucus Meeting

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke with the thriving California Democratic Environmental Caucus at their virtual meeting, led by Chair Igor Tregub.

June 8, 2022

Summit of the Americas

By White House invitation, Council Chair Michelle Deatrick attended the Summit of the Americas in Los Angeles, CA.

May 5-9, 2022

Council on the Road: Alaska Democratic Party Convention and Listening Sessions

Chair Michelle Deatrick continued the Council’s National Listening Tour and was a featured speaker at the Alaska Democratic Party Convention. Outreach in Juneau for “Coffee, Conversation, and Climate” illuminated the needs and concerns of Alaskans.

April 30, 2022

DNC Climate Council's Earth Month Youth Roundtable
The Climate Generation Unites

At this virtual roundtable, five incredible youth activists shared their stories and gave remarks on the paths to and dire need for political progress on climate, the importance of the youth vote for winning on climate, the role of the Democratic Party as the Climate Party, and so much more. Included was a panel discussion answering questions from the audience about both the youth climate movement and climate on a larger scale.

April 26, 2022

Michigan Women Environmental Leaders Panel

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick delivered the keynote at this panel hosted by the Michigan Democratic Party.

April 1-30, 2022

Earth Month Mobilization

A nationwide movement to mobilize for our planet the entire month of April. Individuals, communities, and organizations were invited to plan and share their Earth Month events through our website, as well as view and attend posted events. From climate marches to panel discussions to nature walks and learning, people all over the country came together to celebrate and protect the planet.

March 11, 2022

DNC Climate Council Meeting & Election

As part of the DNC Meeting in Washington, DC from March 10-12, all DNC Caucuses and Councils held in-person meetings and elections. The Council hosted its elections for Chair, Vice Chair, and Youth Director. The results are as follows:

• Michelle Deatrick was re-elected as Council Chair.

• David Green was re-elected as Council Vice Chair.

• Paul Presendieu was elected as Council Youth Director.

Read the Council’s full statement on its elections here.

February 5, 2022

Alaska Democrats 2022 Convention Fundraiser

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick joined Alaska Democratic Party Chair Casey Steinau for a night full of music, politics, and fun to support the Alaska Democratic Party’s 2022 Convention efforts.

January 23, 2022

Council Chair Spoke at Launch of Dems Abroad Environmental and Climate Crisis Council

Democrats Abroad officially formed its first Global Environmental and Climate Crisis Council and hosted its launch event on Sunday, January 23. DNC Climate Crisis Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was among an exciting slate of speakers at this exciting beginning of a new environmental organization.

January 8, 2022

Council Chair Spoke on Federal Climate Policy at County Democratic Party Meeting

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at the Washtenaw County Democrats meeting in Michigan to highlight federal climate policy solutions.

January 2, 2022

Ann Arbor People and Planet Parade

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick addressed the Ann Arbor People and Planet Parade to speak on the urgency of confronting the climate crisis and to perform a poetry reading.

September 17, 2021

College Democrats of America Virtual Convention

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick addressed the full College Democrats of America Convention to speak with our party’s and country’s future leaders about environmental justice and the climate crisis.

September 4, 2021

Line 5 Pipe Out Paddle Up

At the Line 5 Pipe Out Paddle Up, a day of festivities and protest surrounding Enbridge’s Line 5 oil pipeline in Mackinaw City, Michigan that is organized and led by Indigenous leaders, Council Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke in support of shutting down Line 5.

August 11 - 13, 2021

Young Democrats of America 2021 Convention

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was a featured speaker. The Council tabled at the Convention, talking with youth from across the country about climate and environmental justice issues.

July 14, 2021

(Rail)road to a Livable Planet

Zero Hour hosted an event co-sponsored by the DNC Environment and Climate Crisis Council for a conversation on transportation and climate justice. According to the EPA, transportation is accountable for 28% of total greenhouse gas emissions in the country, making it the single greatest contributor to GHG emissions by sector. Public transit and railroads pose a solution to this problem by creating millions of jobs, decarbonizing the transit system and unifying communities. However, the federal government spends more on roads than transit and rail roads combined! It is time to change that on the (rail)road to a livable planet!

June 29, 2021

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick Speaking at the Rally to End Fossil Fuel Subsidies

A rally urging Congress to end fossil fuel subsidies: hosted by Our Revolution and co-hosted by the Council and a coalition of groups including Greenpeace USA, Friends of the Earth, Sierra Club, Oil Change International, Food and Water Watch, Zero Hour, PDA, OXFAM, and others.

Participants gathered in Washington DC at Jefferson Drive & 3rd Street SW at 9am ET, coffee and light snacks will be available. Speakers included US. Reps Ro Khanna, Ilhan Omar, and many more! Watch here!

June 27, 2021

DNC Climate Council Town Hall
Why and Why Now: Ending the Fossil Fuel Handouts

Congressman Ro Khanna, Congressman Andy Levin, College Democrats of America Environmental Caucus Chair Paul Presendieu, and Council Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at this important and exciting virtual event, Why and Why Now: Ending Fossil Fuel Handouts. We talked about the long legacy of harm from funding corporate polluters and why this moment presents an opportunity to turn the tide on the climate crisis and the handouts that fossil fuel companies receive every year. Hosted by the DNC Environment and Climate Crisis Council, with co-hosts College Democrats of America, Young Democrats of America, and the Environmental Caucuses of the Young Democrats and College Democrats.

This event kicked off a Week of Action to End Fossil Fuel Handouts with allies like Oil Change USA, Our Revolution, Food and Water Watch, Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth, NRDC, 350 Action, Oxfam, and more.

June 5, 2021

Climate Crisis and Environmental Racism

Hosted by the Washtenaw County (Michigan) Democratic Party. Democratic office holders and leaders of municipal climate organizations, Party organizations and grassroots organizations discussed their work fighting against the Climate Emergency and upholding Environmental Justice.

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was among the speakers, who included State Representative Yousef Rabhi, City of Ann Arbor Sustainability Officer Missy Stults, and more.

May 25, 2021

DNC Climate Council Co-sponsors National Rally to End Polluter Welfare

Ending the federal government’s $15 billion yearly handouts to corporate fossil fuel interests is absolutely necessary to countering the Climate Crisis. And the time to act is now. That is why we joined with dozens of groups across the country for this important rally.

We heard inspiring speakers and concrete, urgent calls to action. Our taxpayer dollars should support the future we want to live in, not line the pockets of fossil fuel executives. Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke about Enbridge Line 5 and the Kalamazoo Oil Spill. The Council was proud to co-sponsor.

May 8, 2021

John Lewis Voting Rights Act Day of Action Votercade

Mobilizations in the name of John Lewis happened across the nation on May 8th, 2021 to pass the For the People Act (H.R. 1), the John Lewis Voting Rights Advancement Act (H.R. 4), D.C. Statehood and address the filibuster to do so.

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at the Ann Arbor Day of Action Event to discuss the importance of democracy reform and protecting the right to vote as a crucial part of the climate fight.

April 22, 2021

Progressive Democrats Abroad Earth Day Progress Report

Progressive Democrats Abroad hosted an Earth Day Progress Report including Council Chair Michelle Deatrick, Democrats Abroad Global Chair Julia Bryan, and Progressive Democrats Abroad Chair Sue Alksnis. We heard report backs on President Biden’s American Jobs Plan, the Paris Agreement and Global Climate Summit, climate legislation in the House, and more!

April 22 ,2021

Opportunities for Environmental and Climate Justice in the Biden Era: A Panel Discussion

The Global Black Caucus (GBC) and the Global Progressive Caucus (ProDA) of Democrats Abroad (DA), together with the DA China GBC and ProDA China, hosted a panel on environmental justice on Earth Day. Panelists included Council Chair Michelle Deatrick. Council Director of Black Engagement Allison Stephens co-moderated.

April 21, 2021

College Democrats of America Earth Week Panel Discussion

College Democrats of America hosted an environmental forum for Earth Week including Council Chair Michelle Deatrick, Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (ME-01), Congressman Mondaire Jones (NY-17), Young Democrats of America President Joshua Harris-Till, and Alaska Democratic Party Climate Caucus Vice Chair Ron Meehan.

March 19, 2021

Virtual Climate Strike with the Global Youth Caucus

Featuring DNC Climate Council Chair Michelle Deatrick

Topic: Climate Policy, Justice, and Equity: Intersections and Opportunities

March 11, 2021

DNC Climate Council Roundtable: Climate 2021 - Urgency, Awareness, and Literacy

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick moderated a roundtable discussion with Jane Fonda, Academy Award-winning actor, author, and activist; Jaime Harrison, Chair, Democratic National Committee; Ramón Cruz, President, Sierra Club; and Randi Weingarten, President, American Federation of Teachers.

February 25, 2021

College Democrats of America: Environmental Forum

Featuring DNC Climate Council Chair Michelle Deatrick

February 16, 2021

Michigan Democratic Party Justice Caucus.

Chair Michelle Deatrick, a featured speaker, spoke about climate policy and the Biden Administration.

February 4, 2021

DNC Climate Council Listening Session. Alaska: People, Planet, Policy.

Fifteen Alaskan scientists, policy experts, Indigenous leaders, and activists spoke about environmental justice and climate issues ranging from mining to land conservation to toxics to harms and mitigation for frontline communities.

January 17, 2021

National Coalition Delegation, Pre-Inaugural Reception

Chair Michelle Deatrick addressed Biden White House Climate Policy. Hosted by National Coalition Delegation.

January 10, 2021

What the Biden Administration Can Do: Climate and Health Care

Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke about climate policy. Hosted by Ann Arbor Ward 3/4, Washtenaw 350 & A2B2

December 9, 2020

The Climate Convergence: Uniting For Victory 2021

Chair Michelle Deatrick spoke at The Climate Crisis Policy’s Symposium with Sen. Jeff Merkley, Reps. Levin and Tlaib, and others, discussing legislative and congressional action for 2021.

November 10, 2020

DNC Climate Council Roundtable: Policy, People, Priorities

Tamara Toles O'Laughlin, Advocate for People & Planet and North America Director, 350 Action, Adrien Salazar, Sr. Climate Strategist, Demos Action, and Ben Goloff, Sr. Climate Campaigner, Center for Biological Diversity joined Chair Michelle Deatrick for a conversation about the climate agenda for 2021 in light of the Biden/Harris win.

November 5, 2020

ecoAmerica’s Let’s Talk Climate: Council Chair Michelle Deatrick, What the Election Means for Climate Change

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick participated in ecoAmerica’s Let’s Talk Climate event. She spoke with Jerry Taylor of the Niskanen Center about what the election means for climate change.

Tuesday, October 13, 2020

Listen to Council Chair, Michelle Deatrick as guest on the Social Shift podcast

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was a guest on the Social Shift podcast by Third Shift Creative. She discussed the Council’s work and the need to get climate voters to the polls on November 3rd.

September 30, 2020

DNC Climate Council Roundtable: Climate on the Ballot

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick was joined by speakers Bill McKibben, Charlie Jiang of Greenpeace, Justin Onwenu, a Detroit-based climate organizer, and poet Ada Limon for a lively conversation about how climate is on the ballot on November 3rd, the power and importance of climate voters — and how to act, organize, and amplify our voices.

August 27, 2020

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick joins a session of ecoAmerica’s American Climate Leadership Summit 2020

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick joined Lindsay Harper of Arm in Arm and moderator Phil Sharp of ecoAmerica in discussing “The Next 60 Days” in the lead up to the 2020 election.

August 20, 2020

Michelle Deatrick is headlined in “The Climate Crisis is Now,” shown as part of the Democratic National Convention

August 18, 2020

The DNC Council on Environment and the Climate Crisis hosts a two hour discussion at the Democratic National Convention on “How and Why Democrats Should Run on Climate”

On August 18th, as part of the Democratic National Convention, the DNC Council on Environment and Climate Crisis held Climate Conversation "Why and How Democrats Should Run on Climate". The 2 hour event included panel discussions, speakers, eco-poetry and polling data on climate issues. The participants were:

Michelle Deatrick, Chair, DNC Council on Environment and Climate Crisis

Shannon Holsey, President, Stockbridge-Munsee band of Mohican Indians

Tom Perez, Chair, Democratic National Committee

Danielle Deiseroth, Climate Data Analyst for Data for Progress

Paulette Jordan, Democratic Nominee for US Senate (Idaho)

Costa Constantanides, Chair, New York City Council Member,

Ilona J Duverge, Co-founder of Movement School

Tom Steyer, Philanthropist and Environmentalist

Andy Levin, Congressman, D-MI

Jane Kleeb, Chair, Nebraska Democratic Party

Jay Inslee, Governor of Washington state

Keith Ellison, Attorney General of Minnesota

Peggy Shepard, Executive Director, Co-Founder, WE ACT For Environmental Justice

Mandela Barnes, Lieutenant Governor of Wisconsin

Camille T. Dungy, University Distinguished Professor, Colorado State University, and poet

July 22, 2020

A DNC Climate Council Roundtable: Why Democrats Should Run on Climate

Michelle Deatrick, Chair of the DNC Council on Environment and Climate Crisis joined by:

Actress, activist and author Jane Fonda

Representative Deb Haaland (D-NM)

Sunrise Movement National Spokesperson Naina Agrawal-Hardin, and

North America Director at 350.org Tamara Toles O’Loughlin

for an engaging conversation about the need for the Democratic Party to lead on climate.

June 25, 2020

Council Chair Michelle Deatrick speaks at Clean Water Action-Michigan Town Hall

Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib (Michigan’s 12th Congressional District) and Michelle Regalado Deatrick (National Chair, DNC Climate Council) joined Clean Water Action to discuss one of the most important and urgent environmental issues of our time: climate change.

We are already seeing the impact climate change is having on our environment, and Michigan is far from immune. As extreme weather events become stronger and more frequent, Michigan continues to see record high Great Lakes water levels and flooding throughout the state. Our waters are thawing earlier and freezing later - Lake Superior is now one of the fastest-warming lakes in the world - and the rising temperatures are affecting aquatic life as well. This process is being accelerated by corporate polluter emissions, overwhelmingly located in Michigan communities of color already suffering the effects of environmental racism.

June 22, 2020

Minnesota Roundtable Discussion

Michelle Deatrick, Chair of the DNC Council on the Environment and Climate Crisis joined Veda Kanitz, Chair of the DFL Environmental Caucus, and Elly Zaragoza, Minnesota DNC Member for a discussion about the environmental and climate crisis issues in Minnesota and the Council’s recommendations to the DNC Platform Committee.

2019-2020 Other Events on our National Listening Tour

Other events include these stops on our National Listening Tour: Los Angeles, California; Manchester, New Hampshire; Des Moines, Iowa; Charleston, South Carolina; Columbia, South Carolina; Las Vegas, Nevada.