On July 12th, the Climate Change & Health Equity (CCHE) Coalition hosted a ribbon-cutting event at 470 Chestnut Street in celebration of the unveiling of our Climate Justice Mural with Fresh Paint Springfield and Common Wealth Murals. The mural brings together arts, culture, and activism. This work was done in partnership with community residents, resident advisors, and climate justice activists. The mural was painted by world-renowned artist Betsy Z. Casañas who engaged the community. Her work has been well received in the city, neighboring communities like Holyoke, and worldwide.

The painting depicts Brendaliz Cepeda, a Bomba y Plena dancer with Bomba de Aqui, and plants native to Puerto Rico which purify the air. Once named the asthma capital of the United States, Springfield now comes in 12th in part because of community efforts to address respiratory health needs and indoor air quality including the Healthy Homes Initiative. The powerful stance of the Bomba dancer represents the importance of taking action NOW on environmental justice issues.

"This mural is a representation of community, partnerships, and trust. The coalition's commitment to work with diverse community partners, such as activists, arts culture, and the economic sector, is the only way we can significantly impact city government and the community," said Live Well Springfield Director Samantha Hamilton.

The Live Well Springfield CCHE Initiative, funded by the Kresge Foundation, is advocating for Community Choice Energy and implementation of recommendations in the Race and Health Equity Impact Assessment. Communications funding from Trinity Health of New England and Blues to Green supported the development and creation of our beautiful climate justice mural in which community members can see themselves. The residents of the North End of Springfield are almost 65% Puerto Rican natives.    

"Blues to Green is a committed partner in the work for climate justice, leveraging the power of the Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival to connect this issue with a large audience, raise awareness, and inspire collective action for change. In the past few years, we have incorporated programming into the festival to connect arts, culture, and activism around the issue of climate justice." shared Kristen Neville, Executive Director of Blues to Green. 

Live Well Springfield Resident Advisor Katrelia Bryant shared, "this is a beautiful artwork representing heritage, pride, love, and community bonding."  

The two-year project was carried out in partnership with Fresh Paint Springfield, Common Wealth Murals, Blues to Green, Springfield Jazz & Roots Festival, and Trinity Health of New England Mercy Medical Center.