From Oil Town to Climate Justice with Ariana Akbari
What does climate justice actually look like when you’re living in it?
This week on Working Girl, I’m joined by Ariana Akbari, Executive Director of Climate Justice Texas, an environmental advocacy and conservation education organization working on the petrochemical front lines of Southeast Texas.
Ariana grew up surrounded by oil and gas, where climate change wasn’t even part of the conversation. But after leaving home and seeing the bigger picture, she came back determined to start one.
In this episode, we talk about what climate justice really means on a local level, why so many people feel disconnected from environmental issues, and how starting the conversation might be the most powerful tool we have.
We also get real about the emotional toll of doing this work, the fear that comes with being an activist, and why Ariana is choosing optimism, creativity, and community as her approach to change.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, disconnected, or unsure how to make an impact, this conversation is for you.
In this episode, we cover:
What climate justice looks like in Southeast Texas
Why climate change feels distant until it hits your backyard
The connection between environmental issues, public health, and community wellbeing
How Climate Justice Texas blends art, storytelling, and activism (zines, film, and community programs)
Why optimism and belonging are critical in advocacy work
Simple, tangible ways you can start engaging with climate justice today
Other mentions in this episode:
Climate Justice Museum (Houston collaboration)
CERA Week (Houston energy conference context)
Local advocacy efforts like voter guides and community organizing in Texas
GET INVOLVED + RESOURCES
Support Ariana + Climate Justice Texas:
Donate: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/climate-justice-texas-1
Shop merch: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/cjtmerch
Website: https://www.climatejusticetexas.org/
Follow: @climatejusticetexas @arianaakbari @arianaakbariart
Listen to full episode :
