All my life, I have found myself advocating for underserved communities while involving myself with campaigns to help dismantle the egregious disparities that exist in our political, environmental, and educational arenas. Ever since I could talk, I’ve been asking people of all ages, races, and socio-economic backgrounds if they are registered to vote. My mother has exposed me to trainings, rallies, meetings and other opportunities to ensure I have an appreciation for the power in organizing. We have always held memberships in advocacy groups such as NAACP, League of Women Voters, Black Women’s Political Action Committee, Greater Cleveland Voter Coalition, etc.
At the root of all of our organizing efforts was a passion to empower people on their civic duty to be engaged while demanding action and accountability from regulatory agencies and elected officials. My mother has worked with clergy leadership, elected officials, private donors, and a plethora of organizations to engage communities. Her work began with the Sierra Club in 2016 as the Cleveland Ready for 100 Campaign Manager while she also served as a member of the National Organizing training team. She has also been responsible for creating community dialogues across the country for Sierra Club members. I can vividly remember the day my mother told me she had an interview with the Sierra Club, I was so excited for her because I understood the influence that this prestigious organization had on communities in regards to environmental justice. The world was shifting from “Global Warming” to “Climate Change” and this was an exciting time to engage black and brown people in this environmental justice movement at a more progressive rate than had occurred in the past. This was an opportunity for my mother to break down barriers internally within the Sierra Club, as well as, externally with members, supporters and donors.
I began my work with the Alabama Sierra Club as Compliance Director and later won a seat on the Alabama Chapter Executive Committee. Currently, I serve as Vice Chair and diligent in encouraging our efforts around equity, justice and inclusion to ensure Sierra Club is engaging the residents they strive to protect.
Joi L. Travis, Esquire
Travis Law LLC
1027 23rd Street South
Birmingham, Alabama 35205