AN INTRODUCTION TO ECOWOMANIST INSTITUTE SOUTHEAST (EWISE)

Valerie: Hello, I'm Valerie Hill Rawls, the founder of the EcoWomanist Institute Southeast, or EWISE. I'm the child of the children of the great migration, and I'm the granddaughter of a Mississippi sharecropper, and the aspirations of my ancestors. 

Valerie: At EWISE, we create pathways for women and girls of color to reconnect with the earth and to see themselves through environmental justice, eco-spirituality, and ethics. We believe that building a deeper relationship with nature can create a more just, sustainable, and harmonious world for all.

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Valerie: Our programs focus on healing–both mental and physical–by helping women see the earth as a source of wisdom and restoration. Activities like sustainable farming, nature-based self-care to reduce stress and anxiety–we see that in women that we serve, while also promoting civic engagement and community and economic development.

Valerie: We know the barriers that women of color face—energy burdens, climate change, racial injustice, and economic challenges—we tackle these head on. By teaching farming practices, collective racial healing, and environmental advocacy, we empower women to take control of their futures while improving their overall health.

Valerie: What makes us unique is our belief that when the earth is seen as sacred, we see ourselves as sacred as well. We understand that improving health outcomes require addressing environmental conditions and economic challenges, which are exasperated by climate change.

Valerie: Through our programs, we empower women and girls to connect with the earth, promoting overall health and well-being while galvanizing communities to be the change that we want to see.