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Ella Culton, Class of 2019, was the recipient of the National Green Schools Student Leader for her service and commitment to environmental and social justice. Listen to the speech she offered at the national conference in St. Paul, Minnesota where she received her award.

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... role model for youth civic leadership, she's helped raise awareness for climate change, safe drinking water, environmental and social justice in her community. Each person here at the Green Schools Conference works hard to inspire our young people to explore, understand, and advocate for a better, healthier future for people and our planet. We've asked Ella to say a few words about her recent experiences and provide encouragement for you to keep raising up students and their important voices. ** appluase ** Before I begin, I would like to thank the Green Schools National Network and the Center for Green Schools for this award and experience as well as my school, The Greene School, and Ms. Percival. Without them, I wouldn't be able to stand up here today and be able to hear from you all. My first real experience with the environment and sustainability was in 2016 during my sophomore year of high school. I had applied for a service learning trip to travel to Flint, Michigan to learn more about the water crisis and also donate supplies. While I'd certainly heard about the water crisis in Flint, I didn't really understand the scope of the problem or the real families that were being affected. While I was there, I saw a community being being held together by strong leaders dedicated to environmental activism, continuing to push for justice when no one else was. Walking door-to-door, we heard the real and unique stories of each family left in Flint, and the terrible consequences of the lead in their water. I decided during this trip that I wanted to study environmental policy after college so I could be making a difference in legislation for not only this community, but similarly effected communities around the country. This is a real way to bring about environmental and sustainable action, especially when finding connections between yourself, your audience, and your issue. Find the stories of families suffering because of environmental challenges, or the organisms going extinct because of climate change. With this you can inspire compassion, and action, giving a face to the name in the fight for environmental justice. Teach your students and your friends about how even small change can make a big difference not only for yourself or the cause you are supporting, but for your students and your community. A step as simple as using reusable water-bottles can can make a big difference over time. As a student. I can tell you that students are far more likely to take action if they have a role model in the environmental service, encouraging them to participate fully and wholeheartedly. In the same way you must treat others the way you want to be treated, you must show up the way that you want to show up. Stand tall, lean in, and don't be afraid to get messy along the way. Thank you, and enjoy the rest of the conference. ** applause **

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