How Erica Brown leads young people to “Sunrise” in the fight for climate justice

The Sunrise Philly Director shares her vision, challenges, and what keeps her going in the latest Green Philly Civic Catalyst series.

Role: Executive Director of the Philadelphia chapter of Sunrise Movement, which is a collective of young adults and teenagers who are organized in support of the Green New Deal – a proposal to tackle climate change and invigorate the economy. 

Green superpower: Clarity of purpose 

How Brown wields her superpower: Brown recognizes that the future may look bleak due to the effects of global warming, especially for marginalized communities. But this does not stop her from fighting for change. “I want to live, and I want other people to live,” she says. She organizes direct action with her fellow Sunrise members and encourages members to overcome their fear to push for a better world, which she feels people need to be reminded that they deserve. 

What she finds fun about climate organizing work: Direct action, which she equates to competitive sports. “I like sports; I like winning,” says Brown. For Sunrise’s recent direct action in support of the DC 33 strike, members strategized just like they would for a team sport. They mapped their moves, came up with a game plan, and executed it. “That is fun,” she says.

Challenges to overcome in the sustainability movement: Getting others to join in, especially when personal risk is involved.  “How do you get others to do it with you? You can’t; they have to make the choice themselves,” says Brown. 

Brown and two other Sunrise members were arrested for their action in support of DC 33 at City Hall. Brown says Mayor Parker chose to give them a defiant trespassing charge, rather than a civil violation notice– the more common and lesser charge for civil actions.

What she is looking forward to with Sunrise: Growing in confidence with her fellow members. “What gives me the most hope is seeing people [grow]into people who will want to live, and will stand up for themselves and fight.” She also looks forward to expanding Sunrise’s base by recruiting throughout the city, with a special focus on Northeast Philly at this time. 

Her advice for getting involved: Show up to an in-person event with Sunrise. Sunrise prioritizes in-person involvement to get people connecting with each other. 

How to get in touch: Follow or DM Sunrise on their Instagram. Join a welcome call. Or fill out their interest form here. 

Cover photo: Erica Brown, Sunrise Philly Executive Director. Credit: Angie Bacha

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