advocacy

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Why Illinois Environmental Advocacy Matters More Than Ever: A Conversation with IEC’s Hannah Flath

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Why Illinois Environmental Advocacy Matters More Than Ever: A Conversation with IEC’s Hannah Flath

As environmental protections face growing challenges at the federal level, state and local advocacy has become more important than ever. For the Illinois Environmental Council (IEC), that means bringing communities together, meeting directly with lawmakers, and pushing for policies that protect Illinois residents and the environment.

On Monday, 10/26/2026, I interviewed Hannah Flath about IEC’s upcoming Lobby Day, what her vision of environmental advocacy looks like, and more. Hannah Flath, who has been involved with IEC since 20240, is preparing for her sixth year of helping advocates make their voices heard in the Illinois State Capitol. From regulating the growing impact of data centers to protecting the state’s remaining wetlands, IEC works to keep environmental concerns a priority for legislators.

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Our Children’s Trust: Reframing the “Right to Life”

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Our Children’s Trust: Reframing the “Right to Life”

I recently attended the year-end wrap-up webinar from Our Children’s Trust (OCT), and there’s a lot going on! For those who don’t know, OCT is a nonprofit public interest law firm in Eugene, Oregon, dedicated to securing a healthy atmosphere and safe climate for young people. 

Their federal, state, and international lawsuits push governmental bodies to recognize environmental harms, especially as they affect the health and lives of young people. Every case, win or lose, strengthens the next, empowering the young people who have stepped up to be plaintiffs and building a body of testimony from those plaintiffs and expert witnesses, including public health professionals and  climate scientists. An overarching goal of OCT cases is to clarify the government’s constitutional obligation to protect the environment, thereby ensuring the right to life—yes, right to life (and to liberty and the pursuit of happiness)--of our earth’s young people. 

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Speaking Up for the Rights of Nature

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Speaking Up for the Rights of Nature

What rights, if any, do our ecosystems have? And who will speak for them? 

Under the current system of law in almost every country, humans have the right to exploit nature, because lakes, rivers, wetlands, forestlands, and other ecosystems and natural communities are considered to be property. And, as property, its owner has the right to treat it as they choose, including damaging or destroying it. 

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Join Faith in Place for the Environment & Spirituality Summit!

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Join Faith in Place for the Environment & Spirituality Summit!

We are thrilled to announce that One Earth Collective is partnering with the Annual Environment & Spirituality Summit this year! This special event, hosted by our friends at Faith in Place—the IL, IN, and WI affiliate of Interfaith Power and Light—takes place from September 22-24. It offers a unique hybrid experience with all sessions available on Zoom and local keynote watch parties hosted in IL, IN, and WI. You can view the watch party locations here.

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Austin Grown and Gone

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Austin Grown and Gone

In June and July, Austin Grown, a collaborative initiative between One Earth Collective and BUILD Chicago, embarked on a transformative six-week journey of planting, nurturing, and learning. Participants went into the realms of environmental stewardship, racial and social justice, and personal well-being through engaging activities, including hands-on gardening, cooking, and educational excursions.