Bryant Williams was a cherished father, husband, and environmental justice (EJ) advocate from the South Side of Chicago. He had a remarkable talent for connecting people, understanding the profound impact that individual relationships have on fostering compassionate communities. Throughout his career, he served as a dedicated mentor, encouraging us to think creatively about how we can harness our talents and abilities collectively to realize our vision for a better world. His impressive professional background spanned various roles in government, nonprofit leadership, and the founding of a sustainable deconstruction business. Above all, Williams was a caring, courageous, and joyfully generous friend, father, mentor, and community leader. His presence is deeply missed in the EJ community after his passing. The Bryant Williams Environmental Justice Fellowship was established to celebrate Williams's leadership, legacy, and dedication to his family, community, peers, and friends.
The fully funded, 12-month opportunity is for BIPOC leaders to engage with frontline environmental justice organizations in Chicago. It aims to enhance the capacity of these vital organizations while also providing a supported pathway for BIPOC community members to enter the environmental justice movement alongside established frontline groups. The first fellowship program, administered by the Little Village Environmental Justice Organization (LVEJO), awarded four fellows in 2018, though it was distinct from today's version. The 2022-2023 fellows, Mia Berrios and Carlson Ayanlaja, were placed at People for Community Recovery and Blacks in Green, respectively.
“There was no fellowship for the 2023-2024 program year, as the program shifted to some internal organizing work in preparation for the 2024-2025 program year. In the spring of 2024, we launched the application for the 2024-2025 program year, receiving over 35 applications for one position—a role with the Southeast Side Environmental Task Force (SETF),” shared Kumar Jensen, the principal and founder of the Baseline Institute.
In July, Xochyl Perez was selected as the 2024-2025 Bryant Williams Environmental Justice Fellow. “This will be the second program year for the Fellowship, which is being funded by the Chicago Frontlines Funding Initiative. With increased funding, we would be able to offer more programs and opportunities,” Jensen said.
In a world increasingly aware of the interconnectedness of environmental issues and social justice, the voice of advocates like Perez resonates powerfully. Her family is from Mexico, and she was raised in the primarily immigrant community of Albany Park. Her story and insights shed light on the critical importance of community, personal journeys, and cultural heritage in the fight for environmental equity. She emphasizes that understanding the roots of environmental inequalities starts with curiosity and observation.
Perez's deep connection to nature is more than a personal affinity; it serves as a guiding principle in her advocacy. By encouraging individuals to engage with their immediate surroundings, Perez highlights a foundational step toward grasping the complexity of environmental issues. This approach not only cultivates a sense of responsibility but also reveals how these challenges often intersect with broader social justice concerns.
“I vividly remember being around 8 years old when I had a moment of awareness and felt a deep connection with the Earth. My culture was also instrumental in nurturing my love for people and the Earth. Growing up, I would observe how deeply connected my family was to the earth and her medicines,” Perez said.
One of the most compelling aspects of Perez's narrative is her acknowledgment of the historical leadership of BIPOC communities in environmental movements. She reminds us to listen and learn from those who have confronted these issues for generations, underscoring the importance of inclusivity and respect in advocacy. Her awareness is vital as the Chicagoland area navigates the path toward equity and justice, ensuring that the voices of those most impacted are central in the dialogue.
“For anyone looking to get involved in environmental justice, I recommend starting within your own community—whether that’s your family, clubs, or neighborhood. Begin with curiosity. Observe your surroundings. For instance, you might notice the volume of trucks passing through your neighborhood and question how that affects the air quality. Or you may discover a local environmental justice organization and attend one of their meetings or events. Take time to notice these things, and when you're ready, move forward with intention and care. It’s important to recognize that BIPOC communities have been leading this work for a long time, and there is so much to learn about how you can contribute your resources and energy to support their efforts, so move slowly and learn how to build trust,” Perez said.
As a current recipient of the Bryant Williams Environmental Justice Fellowship, Perez stands on the shoulders of a profound legacy dedicated to community well-being and environmental advocacy. Her gratitude for this opportunity shines through, revealing her commitment to making a meaningful impact with organizations like the SETF. Through this fellowship, she is not just carrying forward a legacy; she is also shaping her own while inspiring others to join the movement.
“I feel deeply connected to Bryant Williams’ legacy and the powerful work being done by the Task Force. This fellowship grounds me in integrity and deepens my commitment to the well-being of our communities and our shared natural environment. I’m incredibly grateful for this opportunity and wish to extend my heartfelt thanks to Bryant Williams, his family, friends, and everyone who supports this fellowship,” she said.
Dr. Mila Marshall is an environmental professional and journalist with a passion for advancing sustainability in all sectors. Her passion is directed towards urban food systems in segregated cities.