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As part of our Building Democracy Together series, this virtual conversation will explore the intersection of environmental justice, public policy, and community impact in Connecticut.
Bringing together leaders across advocacy, law, and government, this discussion will examine how federal and state policy decisions are shaping access to clean water, climate investments, and environmental protections—particularly for low-income and historically marginalized communities.
Speakers will share insights on emerging challenges and opportunities, including shifts in federal funding, efforts to advance equitable climate solutions, and strategies to strengthen systems that support long-term environmental and community well-being.
Join us for a timely conversation about how communities, nonprofits, and partners can work together to advance environmental justice and build a more equitable future.
→REGISTER HERE TO RECEIVE THE ZOOM LINK←
Featured Speakers
Ayana Melvan
Executive Vice President, Aquarium Conservation Partnership
Ayana Melvan brings more than a decade of experience advancing social, environmental, and ocean justice through a racial equity lens. She has led collective impact efforts at both local and national levels, working across sectors including youth development, aquariums, and zoos. A founder and former co-chair of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership’s Equity Work Group, Ayana has collaborated with organizations such as Mystic Aquarium and brings deep expertise in environmental justice, conservation, and climate policy. She also serves on the Foundation’s Environmental Grants Committee.
Aundre Bumgardner
State Representative, Connecticut’s 41st House District; Co-Chair, Environment Committee
Aundre Bumgardner represents Connecticut’s 41st District and serves as Co-Chair of the Environment Committee. He has been a leading voice on environmental policy in the state, including proposing legislation to address Connecticut’s waste crisis. His work focuses on sustainable infrastructure, environmental protection, and advancing policies that support resilient and healthy communities.
Katherine Christopher
Supervising Attorney, Environmental Justice & Climate Change Program, Lawyers for Good Government
Katherine Christopher leads legal efforts focused on environmental justice and climate policy at Lawyers for Good Government. She previously served as an Attorney-Adviser at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, where she helped develop the Greenhouse Gas Reduction Fund and other federal grant programs. Earlier in her career, she worked in securities litigation and compliance at a major New York law firm. Today, her work centers on restoring and expanding federal funding for environmental justice initiatives, supporting nonprofits in accessing funding for climate and infrastructure projects, and advancing equitable solutions related to clean water access and the transition to a green economy.
