Some of the most resonant breakthroughs happened when the work was personal, expressive, and connected. Convenings like the first Global Artivism Conference brought together artists and activists across 20 countries. The Yale Environmental Joy conference made space for youth and mental health in climate conversations. At the Center for Cultural Power, artists and organizers used cultural strategy to embed climate issues into pop culture through storytelling, music, and visual art that invited participation and reimagined what's possible. Their work reflected a broader insight from our first four years: cultural projects that affirm joy, dignity, and belonging can build connection and endurance.
Joy wasn’t an extra—it was a counterforce to burnout, fear-based messaging, and fatigue in climate spaces. And it’s something we will keep investing in.
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Joy and Connection Propel the Work
Progress was built on strategy and strengthened by relationships and moments of joy.
