There is no denying that our Earth is straining under the impact of human activities. It is also true that there are more people than ever committed to improving the situation. This resource explores Earth Day in the context of climate change, including reasons to be hopeful.

Download Current Context issue: Initiatives, Recalls, and Referendums 

Of the seventeen budget summary chapters in Governor Newsom's proposed budget, three relate specifically to the environment. This focus on the environment, and climate change in particular, has much to do with the fact that nearly all state priorities are in some way influenced by or connected to the environment.

Teaching Suggestions:

Of the seventeen budget summary chapters in Governor Newsom's proposed budget, three relate specifically to the environment. This focus on the environment, and climate change in particular, has much to do with the fact that nearly all state priorities are in some way influenced by or connected to the environment.

With container ships full of goods piled up at the ports of Los Angles and Long Beach, this is a good moment to examine the advantages and drawbacks of our current economy and consider what changes could make it work better for more people over time, and for the Earth itself.

California voters face an unusual political moment this month. For only the second time in state history, voters will decide in the middle of a governor’s term whether to keep this elected official in office. While recall attempts are common in California, what is unique is an actual recall election. This year, however, a sufficient number of voters – more than 1.5 million – signed their names to a petition to force an election.

Why has the term ‘redlining’ been in the news, and what are its connections to social, environmental and climate justice issues? Beginning in the 1930s, redlining was an official practice by federal agencies and banks that for decades restricted home loans primarily to white Americans.

Abstract:  Incidents of hate crimes, attacks, and harassment directed at Asian Americans have skyrocketed during the COVID-19 pandemic. To scholars and students of Asian American history, these patterns are neither new nor surprising.

Abstract: As the country replaces deteriorating and outdated infrastructure and adds new items like electric vehicle charging stations, it is worth keeping in mind that even “green” technologies have environmental and social impact.

Abstract: Biden has promised to treat climate change as a serious threat to our nation and world. His administration faces an enormous challenge in setting the country on course for zero greenhouse gas emissions, especially after Trump's rejection of climate science.