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JOHN McConnell, founder of International Earth Day once said, "Let every individual and institution now think and act as a responsible trustee of Earth, seeking choices in ecology, economics and ethics that will provide a sustainable future, eliminate pollution, poverty and violence, awaken the wonder of life and foster peaceful progress in the human adventure." In essence, we are responsible to keeping our world a healthy place to live in.
We all envision a world where people are healthy – an environment that can be preserved and sustained for present and future generations. However, progress and development coupled with irresponsibility has brought serious environmental concerns. With this, in mind, the Filipino American Coalition for Environmental Solidarity (FACES) stepped up to face environmental issues plaguing the Philippines.
Launched in February 2000, FACES is an intergenerational organization that works for environmental justice within communities in the United States and in the Philippines. FACES continually creates partnerships through advocacy, education, service and organizing, building intergenerational leadership especially among young Filipino-Americans.
"As a young and growing organization, we see ourselves as filling a niche in the US, bringing a Fil-Am perspective to the environmental justice movement," said FACES Board of Directors Chair Aileen Suzara. "Our programs open spaces for Fil-Ams to meet like-minded people, learn about the connections between the US and the Philippines, deepen their understanding of environmental issues and engage their identity through activism."
Some of these activities include the Face2Face summer program, that lets the youth go back to the Philippines to witness the social environmental issues communities face. These experiences has often led to lasting involvement, beginning with the participant and even extending to their families, friends and the community. Last summer’s group produced an exhibit and community arts event entitled "Pandacan: A Legacy of Pride and Pollution," which has built awareness and connection to nearly 100 community members.
