In the immortal words of James Brown…“This is a man’s world…but it wouldn’t be nothing, nothing—without a woman or a girl.” This month, it is with that sentiment in mind that we celebrate Arizona’s women who are leading the charge for sustainability.
Women play an important role in shaping our future and the future of our planet. From architect to activist, women, by nature, have a nurturing spirit. Instinctively we want to take care of those around us, whether they are family members, coworkers, friends or strangers. We also want to take care of our world for future generations. As caregivers we become knowledgeable in all areas of health—physical, mental, nutritional and spiritual. We research environmental concerns to better protect our children. We seek out information and share it with those around us. We learn and lead and act.
When James Brown first sang those words in 1966, I wonder if he believed them. Equality for women was, and continues to be, elusive in some areas of the world (and admittedly sometimes right here at home), yet it is in those male-dominated countries that women are charged with the most important role— survival. Fulfilling the most basic human needs—providing food and water—is a woman’s job. Historically, and born of necessity, women have learned to thrive on minimal means by repurposing, recycling and conserving. In essence, we were being sustainable before sustainability became vogue.
In our May issue you will hear from Vandana Shiva, whose activism in India stopped deforestation and protected a precious water source.
You will meet Diane Reicher Jacobs and Holly Asher, who focus on green building and design, and Kim Chafin, whose city planning focuses on revitalization and historic preservation. We also learn about Kristen Bury’s efforts to bring sustainability to the forefront of education. There are many educators and students out there working to make the world a better place. Girls and boys at Seton Preparatory High School received an award for their recycling and environmental efforts.
At the Clinton Global Initiative University at Arizona State University, college students were recognized for their public service initiatives that have impacted thousands of lives around the globe. We learn more about discussions with the Clinton family and industry experts who attended.
Our sustainable business feature explores the importance of gender diversity in the workplace. We also meet two women who have opened an East Valley restaurant that cares for a large number of rescue birds who were given a home there. These are just a few of the inspiring stories of women and girls evoking positive change in our community.
James Brown’s song continues, “You see, man made the car to take us over the road.
Man made the train to carry the heavy load…”
Yes, man has made many things—some good, some bad—and now we have some cleaning up to do. Don’t take this too personally, guys. In the June issue we will pay homage to the men who make sustainability a priority. But for now, we salute all the women who effect positive change, often under difficult circumstances. We applaud you. We appreciate all of your efforts. And we know that this world would be nothing—nothing-—without you.
Cheryl Hurd
Editor-in-Chief
