Ecowomanism is a practice of reclamation of Black women’s stories, knowledge, and spiritual traditions that have been historically marginalized but hold profound wisdom for addressing today’s environmental crises. Central to Ecowomanism is the understanding that Black women’s relationship with the earth is not only a source of sustenance and survival but also a source of deep spiritual and cultural strength.
Contemplative Practice and Self-Care
As a form of spiritual activism, Ecowomanism embraces the belief that restoring balance with the earth is both an environmental and spiritual practice, calling for a collective return to earth-conscious ways of living and organizing. Ecowomanism views the fight for climate and environmental justice as deeply connected to our sacred relationship with the earth, ourselves, and each other.
Ecostorytelling and Ecomemories
Eco-memory is Black people’s collective and individual memories about Nature, revealing a historical relationship with and connection to Earth. Black people’s value of Earth as a source of all life with the power to release chaos in the oppressor’s plans shifts the gaze and presents us with a lens on environmental history not traditionally acknowledged by the slave owners’ records.
Environmental and Climate Justice
Environmental justice advocates for Earth and all beings of the Earth, especially the voices of communities of color. EJ reveals the intersections between racial, gender, economic and social injustice in connection with policy-making that place marginalized communities at risk of being trapped in unhealthy environments due to air pollution, soil contamination, unjust use of land and more.
Collaboration and Connection
At its core, Ecowomanism is a community of practice where spirituality and activism come together. This community honors the spiritual traditions that have historically sustained Black women and their relationship with the earth—traditions that affirm the earth as sacred, teach reciprocity with nature, and guide the practices of care and stewardship.