342. Washington’s Leadership in the Global Climate Movement: Setting Examples for Progressive Climate Policies

Washington is leading the nation as a model for the transition to a climate-safe future.

People, movements, and politicians across the state have been able to pass landmark policies that benefit local communities, as well as inspire other regions to follow suit. From Seattle’s commercial energy codes, to Whatcom County’s first-ever ban on new fossil fuel infrastructure, to the statewide Climate Commitment Act, Washington continues to set examples for how progressive climate policies can support a thriving region.

As we build on nationwide momentum to reduce carbon emissions, protect our environment, and build community resilience, let’s take stock of our successes and determine the most impactful and equitable pathways forward: Who is leading real climate progress in Washington, and how can we support them in climate action that leaves no one in our state behind?

State Representative Alex Ramel will moderate a panel of activists and experts who are supporting Washington’s diverse communities to build a shared, climate-safe future.

Panelists:

Todd Paglia, Executive Director, Stand.earth

Todd Paglia began his career as an attorney for Ralph Nader, focusing on the environment, consumer protection issues, and holding corporations accountable. As Executive Director of Stand.earth since 1999, his commitment to conservation led a winning campaign to drive Fortune 500 companies including Staples, Williams-Sonoma, 3M, and more to purchase and use recycled paper, and immediately preserve millions more old growth and endangered forests. An avid fisher and skier, Todd’s love for the planet drew him to Washington State. He has called Bellingham home for 16 years.

Nicole Grant, Director of Government Affairs for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 46 in Seattle

Nicole joined 350 Seattle in November 2021 after gaining tremendous strategic grounding and practical knowledge in her 20 years in the labor movement. In her time as Executive Secretary at the Martin Luther King County Labor Council, she led a transition that helped to make the organization more focused on racial, gender, and climate justice — while also invigorating its commitments to the need for working people to have a “great life in greater Seattle.” Nicole is a journeyman electrician with IBEW 46, where she also served as the Executive Director of the Certified Electrical Workers of Washington.

Jay Julius, President and Founder, Se’Si’Le

Jay is the former Chairman of the Lummi Nation, a full-time fisherman, and a father. Jay was a leader in the fight to protect Xwe’chi’eXen (Cherry Point) and has organized and executed Tribal, local, regional, and national campaigns. A bridge-builder, he uses empathy and storytelling to bring people together. Principal at Julius Consulting LLC, he is also the Founder and President of the organization Se’Si’Le, which offers strategies for integrating ancestral knowledge into policies, projects, and partnerships with the will of right and respectful relations.

Moderator:

Alex Ramel, Washington State Representative for the 40th District

Rep. Alex Ramel joined the Washington legislature in January of 2020. Last year he was elected by his colleagues to the leadership role of Majority Whip. A single parent, he was called to public service to help address the climate and housing crises facing current and future generations. He has served as President of the Kulshan Community Land Trust which helps build and preserve affordable housing. He also led the development of the Community Energy Challenge which brings businesses, utilities, non-profits, and government together to help conserve energy, reduce costs, and create good paying jobs. Rep. Ramel has called Bellingham home for over 20 years.

Presented by Town Hall Seattle and Stand.earth.