South Florida 2020

Name: Jake Head
How did I get involved in IMPACT?

I first got involved with IMPACT because I appreciated its emphasis on inclusivity, learning, and affordability. I really loved my first trip to New Orleans, and I learned even more on my second trip to Memphis. Both of these experiences have motivated my future career goals, and they have introduced me to a loving and hilarious group of people. I am super excited to get to lead a trip, especially one with a focus so dear to my heart.

Why am I interested in my trip focus?

My first trip to New Orleans was also centered around environmental Justice. While in NOLA, I gained an appreciation and an understanding for how intersectional environmental issues are. We usually think of the environment as an issue in isolation, but my experience in Louisiana and my research for the South Florida trip has shown me that issues of class, race, and systemic discrimination are usually at the center of most environmental issues. I am very excited to explore this issue in such a beautiful part of our country.

Contact info
he/him/his
jacob.head@uga.edu
678.313.1562

Contact Info:
she/her/hers
ekb57629@uga.edu
404-955-4069

Name: Emma Kate Beckwith
How did I get involved in IMPACT?

I became involved with IMPACT because of its efforts to combat voluntourism that we, as college students, sometimes fall into. Since these trips are built around and for service, we get to fully immerse ourselves into our service opportunity, rather than volunteering once on a trip to feel good about yourself or to post a picture on Instagram. Instead of taking advantage of a social justice issue, service educates and empowers us to make a true difference in our society. I believe that Impact is a great way to help open doors for students to let them see the vast opportunities available to make them great advocates for equity.

Why am I interested in my trip focus?

Environmental Justice and Ecofeminism are the two things that I am most ardent about. Both of my majors meet at the intersection of these two subjects and I plan to center my career focus around the two, post-college. I am always excited to share my passions with others and I hope to learn from each of you as well!

ABOUT ENVIRONMENTAL JUSTICE

TERMS TO KNOW:

Environmental Justice: The protection and inclusion of all individuals (regardless of race, class, age, citizenship status) when it comes to environmental issues and policies.
Exclusionary zoning: Urban zoning tendencies that disproportionately affect marginalized communities.
EPA: The environmental protection agency; government organization that enforces environmental regulations and seeks to protect “human and environmental health” (EPA website)
Everglades: One of the nation's largest natural wetlands. Home to thousands of native plant and animal species; completely vital to clean drinking water and protection against coastal erosion.
Environmental racism: Environmental policy that disproportionately affects communities of racial minorities.