Climate Initiatives and Housing Equity Triumphs

In this episode of Good News for Lefties, host Beowulf Rochlen shares a series of inspiring stories that highlight resilience, innovation, and community empowerment in the face of adversity. We kick off with a groundbreaking initiative from the American Geophysical Union and the American Meteorological Society, launching a special collection dedicated to climate change research in response to the Trump Administration's dismissal of National Climate Assessment authors. This collaborative effort aims to keep vital climate insights accessible and relevant, ensuring our policies are informed by science. Next, we celebrate Chicago's passage of the Green Social Housing Ordinance, a transformative step towards housing equity and environmental justice. This innovative ordinance empowers the city to create affordable, mixed-income housing while adhering to green building standards, providing a model for sustainable urban development. The episode also highlights the rapid growth of community solar across the U.S., showcasing its bipartisan support and economic potential. With significant job creation and environmental benefits, community solar is making clean energy accessible to all, regardless of income. We then turn our attention to the National Park Foundation, which plays a crucial role in supporting America's national parks amid funding challenges. Their efforts to mobilize community support and volunteerism are proving essential in maintaining these treasured landscapes. Listeners will also hear about the Adelante Mujeres program in Oregon, which empowers Latino and Hispanic aspiring farmers through education in sustainable practices, fostering community resilience and food sovereignty. Finally, we celebrate Lincoln, Nebraska's historic ordinance banning housing discrimination based on source of income, a progressive move that opens doors for many families and sets a precedent for other cities. Join us for this uplifting episode that reminds us of the power of community, advocacy, and the ongoing fight for justice and equality! This episode is sponsored by BetterHelp. Give online therapy a try and get 10% off your first month at betterhelp.com/Lefties If you have thoughts, ideas, or more good news to share, we’d love to hear from you! Call or message us at 202-656-6271, or drop us a line at beowulf@twosquaredmediaproductions.com You can find out more about GNFL 's daily news stories here: https://news.agu.org/press-release/agu-and-ams-join-forces-on-special-collection-to-maintain-momentum-of-research-supporting-the-u-s-national-climate-assessment/ https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/mayor/press_room/press_releases/2025/may/Green-Social-Housing-Ordinance-Passes.html https://www.canarymedia.com/articles/solar/community-republican-support-states https://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/hiking-and-backpacking/national-park-nonprofits/# https://www.opb.org/article/2025/05/06/oregon-washington-county-adelante-mujeres-program-opportunities-latino-farmers-gardeners/ https://www.1011now.com/2025/05/07/lincoln-voters-approve-ban-source-of-income-housing-discrimination/ More good daily news for democracy on Facebook , Bluesky , and Instagram . If you like Justice Matters with Glenn Kirschner, IMO with Michelle Obama and Craig Robinson, The MeidasTouch Podcast, and Pod Save America, you'll LOVE Good News For Lefties! Thanks to Rosabelle Heine and Aaron Watson for production assistance. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/good-news-for-lefties-daily-news-for-democracy--6256627/support .