SHARE “Pedals” Clean Air
SHARE (Safe, Health, Affordable and Reliable Energy), a non-profit clean energy organization, put its best foot forward to kick off Earth Week in Harlem by sponsoring free pedi-cab rides for morning commuters. Pedi-cab operators picked up welcoming riders and spirited them along to their 125th St destination in an effort to underscore the need for cleaner air in communities of color. The event was anchored at the Adam Clayton Powell State Office Building where SHARE was joined by NAACP State President Hazel Dukes and Willie Walker, the Building Manager of the Adam Clayton Powell Jr., State Office Building, and Harlem area community groups to address the importance of a clean energy future.
“Harlem has among the highest asthma rates in the nation and the City’s air quality is in federal violation,” said Gregory Joseph, Deputy Director of SHARE. “Clean transportation alternatives like pedi-cabs are a clean energy choice that helps reduce greenhouse gases while promoting clean air. “
Hazel Dukes, NAACP New York State President said that urban America has longed recognized the importance of a clean energy future. “Whether it’s the asthma epidemic or the green economy, the environment is front and center in Harlem. Urban America has led every charge to create a better world, and in the fight for a clean energy future we will lead again.“
Councilwoman Inez Dickens stated her “commitment to supporting initiatives and programs that protect and strengthen our environment. Councilwoman Dickens also thanked SHARE for “encouraging an environmentally healthy alternative for our City’s transportation needs.”
“This partnership allows us to offer a range of resources that will allow improved community and environmental health, “ said Willie Walker, Building Manager of the Adam Clayton Powell Jr., State Office Building. “All the non-profits involved today share a commitment to a healthier Harlem and I am proud to co-sponsor with SHARE on such an important day. “
SHARE is no stranger to sponsoring educational forums on emerging clean energy issues in Harlem. In 2008, SHARE joined Mother Zion AME Church to co-host a policy briefing for Central Harlem-area pastors and clergy. In addition, SHARE has taken its message of a clean energy future to the board and staff members of numerous Harlem organizations including Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement and the 21st Century Foundation. In 2009, SHARE released a report documenting that hidden costs of increased energy prices affected communities of color everywhere from the grocery store to increased subway and bus fares.
For more information on SHARE, please visit www.shareNY.org or call 212-905-8921 .
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