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You might remember Antonique Smith as Faith Evans in Notorious or from her roles in Luke Cage and Shots Fired. But what may not be remembered or known is that when she’s not lighting up the screen, she’s leading a movement. For over a decade, Smith has been a fierce advocate for environmental justice, fighting for cleaner air, water, and climate solutions—especially in Black and Brown communities.
Now, in 2025, she’s stepping into an even bigger role: official ambassador for EarthDay.org. And she’s bringing more than just star power—she’s bringing action.
For Earth Day this year, Smith is using her voice in more ways than one. She’s releasing her own rendition of Love Song to the Earth, a track originally recorded by Paul McCartney, Sean Paul, Bon Jovi, and more. But this isn’t just a cover—it’s a movement.
"My version is completely different," she says. "I’ve been in the climate movement for 11 years now, and this song is a declaration. It’s a love letter to the planet, yes, but also a wake-up call."
Smith first sang the song in 2015 at the Pope’s rally on the National Mall. Now, she’s taking it to Times Square, performing it live as part of the Earth Day celebrations.
Smith’s journey into climate activism wasn’t something she planned. In 2013, Grammy-winning songwriter Chicago's own, Malik Yusef invited her to sing Mercy Me for an album about climate change. She thought she’d just lay down some vocals and go. Instead, she walked away transformed.
"At the time, all I knew about climate change was polar bears and melting ice," she admits. "It didn’t feel urgent. But then I learned that 60% of Black Americans live within 30 miles of a power plant. That hit home. I realized climate change wasn’t just some distant crisis—it was killing us."
From that moment, she was all in.
Building Something BiggerNow, as CEO and co-founder of Climate Revival, Smith is taking her advocacy to the next level. Her organization blends gospel concerts and powerful sermons to educate communities about environmental racism, pollution, and climate action.
"I didn’t realize the challenge of being a CEO," she says. "But I’m making a bigger impact than ever before. Instead of waiting for someone else to create change, I’m creating the opportunities."
Branding Earth Day: More Than Just AwarenessSmith’s partnership with EarthDay.org is more than just a title—it’s about action.
"This year’s theme is Earth Action Day," she explains. "We’re moving past just talking about climate change. It’s about doing something. Everyone, no matter where you are, can take action. Whether it’s planting a tree, calling out politicians, or just sharing a video of a place you love—every action counts."
For Smith, being an Earth Day ambassador isn’t just about the environment—it’s about humanity.
"I feel like I’m not just an ambassador for Earth Day—I’m an ambassador of love," she says. "If there was more love, we wouldn’t be in a climate crisis. There wouldn’t be so much pollution, so many trillion-dollar fossil fuel companies putting profits over people."
On Earth Day, Smith will be in Times Square, performing Love Song to the Earth as part of the global celebration. But her activism doesn’t stop there. She’s also leading a major cleanup event in Los Angeles on April 19 and encouraging others to get involved locally.
"The soil is everything," she says. "We don’t think about it, but if our soil is poisoned, we’re growing poison. That’s why Earth Day isn’t just about awareness—it’s about fixing things."
Smith’s work proves that advocacy and artistry can go hand in hand. Whether she’s on screen, in the studio, or marching in the streets, she’s using her platform to push for real change.
As Earth Day approaches, Smith is making it clear—this isn’t just another celebrity endorsement. It’s a movement. And she’s leading the charge.