The Climate and Equitable Jobs Act (CEJA) passed in September 2021 after 3.5 years of community-driven policy development and grassroots education and advocacy. The work to develop and pass this bill was monumental, we held listening sessions, community meetings, lobby day visits with legislators, one-on-one meetings with coal community leaders, town halls, rallies, and so much more. And we did all this in coalition with statewide and frontline organizations and with support and involvement from advocates like you!
The passage of CEJA was celebrated as a nation-leading climate bill that centers equity and justice. Passing the bill was step one, and we are now hearing from supporters that they want to continue the work they started. They want to be able to speak to their friends, neighbors, and local leaders about what CEJA means for their community. They want to make sure their communities are sharing in the benefits of, and contributing to, an equitable clean energy future! If this sounds like you, keep reading!
What is the CEJA Ambassador Program?
The CEJA Ambassador program has been developed by several organizations to give people the information, materials, and connections to be CEJA advocates (aka Ambassadors!) in their own communities.
The work to make an equitable clean energy future a reality has really just begun, and we are excited that you want to be part of it! You can sign up to be a CEJA Ambassador here.
When you sign up to be a CEJA Ambassador you will be asked to:
- Attend a 2-hour virtual training on March 31st (12 – 2pm OR 5 – 7 pm), to learn about CEJA (how we passed it, what’s in the bill, and what actions we can take to help make sure this bill is implemented in a strong and equitable way). We’ll introduce you to an example presentation that you can use in your own community outreach. A recording of this training will be available.
- Work with a “coach” to learn more and practice the CEJA presentation. Your coach will be there to answer questions, identify needed resources, and support you in thinking through who to present to.
- Give the presentation at least once —it might be to a few friends and neighbors, it might be part of a town hall with your state legislators, it might be to a local government leader —the opportunities are expansive!
The CEJA Ambassador program is being planned and supported by several organizations across Illinois. If you or your organization is interested, please sign up here. If you have any questions about the CEJA Ambassador program please reach out to apankau@prairierivers.org.
