DC "Sisters on the Planet" Event Highlighted Global Climate Change

CARE, League of Women Voters, National Peace Corps Association, Oxfam America, Sojourners Magazine. What do all of these organizations have in common? – A commitment to fight climate change!

Oxfam America co-sponsored a DVD screening and panel discussion with the League of Women Voters and the John Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies. Bringing together national and local organizations, this event not only inspired the attendees to continue and intensify their fight against climate change, but provided concrete information about the harsh effects of climate change on the world’s least fortunate.

The Oxfam America DVD, “Sisters on the Planet”, was previewed, highlighting four inspirational women around the world who work to combat the impacts of climate change in their communities. Giving insight into the situations of climate change effects in less developed communities and especially on women, this DVD only reinforced the call for adaptation funding.

Sharon Henshaw, one of the “sisters” in the DVD, joined representatives from Oxfam America and the League of Women Voter for a panel discussion and question and answer period, Henshaw delivered a touching, personal account of her experience during and after Hurricane Katrina ravaged her home. As the Executive Director of a local organization in Louisiana, Coastal Women for Change, she advocates for increased awareness and preparedness in the face of climate change, leaving us with the question, “What would you take with you if you only had one hour to pack up and go?”

After answering questions, the panel encouraged everyone to contact their representatives in Congress and urge support for adaptation funding. They also urged attendees to host their own “Sisters on the Planet” screening! Visit Oxfam America’s “Sisters on the Planet” website on more information on how to host a screening and to order your free copy of “Sisters on the Planet and contact Samantha (advocintern AT rpcv DOT org) to connect with other concerned RPCVs and find more resources on climate change and advocacy.

(In the photo: Sharon Hanshaw of the Coastal Women for Change in Biloxi, MS)