We have launched the Virginia Interfaith Power & Light Environmental Justice Hall of Fame to give appropriate honor to leaders, whether from the faith, political or corporate sectors who align with and demonstrate a dedication to achieving Virginia Interfaith Power & Light’s (VAIPL) vision and mission. We would like to recognize environmental justice champions who are working to overcome the climate crisis, eradicate environmental and social injustices, and are working to build a just, thriving, and equitable world.

Environmental justice is the focus of our Hall of Fame because it is expansive and broad enough to encompass climate, economic, health, and social justice as well as to address racial equity and inclusion.

Nominations for the Virginia Interfaith Power & Light Environmental Justice Hall of Fame may be submitted during the nominations period from August – to December each year. We will choose one inductee per year and host an induction ceremony.

Environmental Hall of Fame inductees are carefully selected based on the following criteria:

^{Congressman A. Donald McEachin’s life and work inspired the criteria for the environmental justice hall of fame.}

• Inductees have demonstrated consistent advocacy for achieving environmental justice in any sector of society and advocacy for sound climate solutions, equity, and inclusion of vulnerable communities.  
• Inductees advocate for justice, equity, and inclusion in civic engagement, evidenced by a clear commitment to working for a healthy, livable, and just future.  
• Inductees model balance, grace, integrity, and authenticity in public speech, political and otherwise, and promote the public discourse for achieving the common good, significantly amplifying faith, health, environment, and economic and social justice.

Submit a Nomination to the VAIPL Environmental Justice Hall of Fame

Hall of Fame Inductee

Congressman A. Donald McEachin

Members inducted into the Hall of Fame receive a special gift inscribed with the symbol of Asase Ye Duru. It is an Adinkra symbol from the Akan peoples of Ghana, and in English, it means “the earth has weight.” It represents power, providence, and divinity. The Asase Ye Duru symbol also embodies the importance of the Earth in sustaining life.