Photo Credited to queerbrownvegan

Isaias Hernandez, a native of Los Angeles, California, has become a prominent figure in the world of environmental activism and education. Born and raised in an area plagued by Section 8 housing, food stamp programs, and environmental injustices, Hernandez’s early life experiences have been instrumental in shaping his passion for the environment, social justice, and equity.

Growing up in the heart of Los Angeles, also known as Tongva Land, Hernandez witnessed firsthand the detrimental impact of pollution on his community and his own well-being. Instead of succumbing to despair, he channeled his emotions into a powerful solution: creating accessible and intersectional environmental education. This drive led him to earn a Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental Science from the University of California, Berkeley, where he further honed his skills and knowledge in the field.

Hernandez firmly believes that diversity in worldviews, backgrounds, and experiences is essential to addressing the climate crisis effectively. In his work as a queer and brown environmentalist, he strives to bridge the gap between corporate and nonprofit sectors, change mindsets, and inspire people of all generations. He is the creator of the influential platform “QueerBrownVegan,” which has enabled him to connect with a wide audience and advocate for environmental awareness and change.

Isaias Hernandez, who splits his time between Los Angeles and New York, serves as a full-time content creator for QueerBrownVegan, a dynamic public speaker, and a consultant. In his spare moments, he finds solace in reading, cooking, foraging, and connecting with the Earth’s rich ecological diversity.

The Intersection of Identity and Environmentalism

Isaias Hernandez’s work extends far beyond traditional environmental activism. He has delved into thought-provoking topics through his blog, offering unique perspectives on the environmental movement. One of his articles, “Queer Ecology: Identity and The Natural World,” challenges the conventional views of the natural world. It highlights the importance of Queer Ecology, which recognizes the fluidity and diversity of identities and relationships in both human and non-human realms.

Another intriguing piece, “What is White Veganism?” delves into the dynamics of race and the environmental movement, particularly within the vegan and plant-based community. Hernandez offers a critical analysis of the system, belief, and structure of Whiteness within veganism, shedding light on the need for inclusivity and diversity within the movement.

The Climate Crisis: An Educational Crisis

Hernandez strongly emphasizes the educational aspect of the climate crisis. In his quest to make environmental education accessible to all, he has coined the term “Climate Influencers Have A Problem.” He discusses the challenge of earning a living as an environmentalist, highlighting the ethical and systemic aspects of the issue.

Furthermore, Hernandez introduced the concept of the “Climate Scale,” a framework that helps individuals situate their emotions and feelings during the climate crisis. He recognizes the scarcity of Climate Change and Mental Health resources in many communities that face natural disasters and aims to address this gap.

Addressing Environmental Racism

A topic close to Isaias Hernandez’s heart is environmental racism. He has dedicated a blog post, “Zero Waste Systems And Environmental Racism,” to shed light on the injustices faced by BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) communities. Environmental racism is a reality, and it disproportionately harms these communities by locating waste incinerators and other harmful facilities nearby.

In his piece “What is Environmental Racism?” Hernandez introduces the concept and its origins within the environmental justice movement. It explores policies and practices that discriminate against marginalized communities and advocates for justice and equity.

Educational Initiatives

Isaias Hernandez’s dedication to environmental education goes beyond the written word. He has ventured into video and public speaking, sharing his insights and knowledge on platforms like Vogue, NowThis, Yahoo, and more. These appearances, as well as his active presence on social media platforms like Instagram (under the handle @queerbrownvegan), have allowed him to reach a broader audience and drive change in environmental and social justice.

As a public speaker, Hernandez passionately discusses the importance of inclusivity and diversity in the environmental movement. He addresses the intergenerational blame often associated with older generations and encourages cooperation and understanding across different age groups.

Sustainable Careers for the Climate Generation

Isaias Hernandez also recognizes the power of the younger generation, with 76% of Gen Z considering climate change as one of their most significant concerns. In his “Sustainable Job Series,” he emphasizes that every job can contribute to climate action, and highlights the diversity, potential, and impact behind careers in the environmental movement.

Isaias Hernandez’s journey from a marginalized community to a prominent voice in the environmental and social justice movements is a testament to his unwavering commitment to inclusivity and education. His work, both in writing and public speaking, has helped bridge the gap between diverse communities, corporate entities, and nonprofit organizations. By emphasizing the intersectional nature of the climate crisis, Hernandez encourages us all to become more informed, engaged, and proactive in addressing the environmental challenges we face.

As he continues to share his unique perspectives and insights, Isaias Hernandez inspires us to think beyond the norm, challenge conventional beliefs, and work together for a more equitable and sustainable future for all.