On Monday, October 28, 2024, iconic actress and activist Jane Fonda returned to North Denver, where she inspired local environmental groups in their ongoing fight against air pollution. The gathering, hosted by local activists and community organizations, brought together residents from Commerce City and neighboring districts, areas struggling with severe pollution from nearby industrial facilities such as the Suncor oil refinery.
While Fonda is known for her Hollywood legacy and work as an author, her dedication to environmental activism has made her a powerful ally to these communities. Fonda’s celebrity may turn heads, but it’s her consistent support for causes like climate change and pollution regulation that has proven impactful in this particular struggle. Community leaders like Harmony Cummings, who heads the Green Connection Center in Globeville, note that Fonda’s visits have brought significant attention to the cause.
“Nothing elevated our platform like her February visit,” Cummings shared, explaining how Fonda’s involvement draws more attention and support to local environmental justice efforts. For communities that have long been ignored, Fonda’s presence shines a much-needed spotlight on their ongoing battles with toxic pollution.
Fonda’s advocacy is not limited to just raising awareness. At Monday’s event, she actively engaged with activists, asking pointed questions about local regulations, such as the state’s oil and gas drilling setback rules. Her willingness to dig into the specifics of policies like California's 3,000-foot setbacks for residents near drilling sites demonstrates her commitment to driving tangible change.
Find there full El Samanrio article HERE
In addition to her probing questions, Fonda emphasized the importance of perseverance, urging volunteers and activists to stay hopeful. "I’m trying to give it my all," she said, highlighting her continued dedication to the people of Commerce City and beyond. “We are focused on Commerce City, and we will keep coming back.”
The event was especially poignant for residents like Guadalupe Solis, who sees tighter regulations as crucial for the health of the community, where high rates of asthma and heart problems have been linked to the ongoing pollution. With Fonda’s backing, local groups are pushing for more stringent rules from the Air Quality Control Commission, particularly around airborne toxins.
Fonda’s visit was a reminder that celebrity influence, when wielded thoughtfully, can be a powerful tool for social and environmental change. It also reaffirmed the collective power of the residents, activists, and allies working together to hold polluters like Suncor accountable and ensure that their voices are heard in critical policy decisions.
The fight against air pollution in North Denver is far from over, but with continued support from figures like Jane Fonda and unwavering local activism, the community is hopeful for a cleaner, healthier future.
Comments