We’re excited to introduce our new Connecticut Director, Christine Bartlett-Josie! Christine is a community leader and political consultant with over two decades of experience advancing progressive policies, understanding the power of people of color to influence the outcome of elections, and ensuring those voices shape the future. She is deeply interested in the intersections of climate change, pollution, and social and environmental justice, and we are thrilled to bring her leadership to Connecticut!
You were born and raised on the Caribbean Island of Saint Lucia. How does this drive your environmental organizing?
Growing up in Saint Lucia taught me firsthand how deeply connected people are to their natural environment. The island’s beauty -- its rivers, beaches, mountains, and lush rain forest -- sustains not only our economy but our culture and way of life. At the same time, living on a small island made the effects of pollution and climate change impossible to ignore, seeing the rivers which were flowing as a child now dry and the amount of garbage left on the beach and riverbeds. That perspective drives me to fight for environmental justice at home in St. Lucia and where I currently live, here in Connecticut, ensuring that communities -- especially those most vulnerable -- are protected and heard in shaping solutions.
What policy issue are you most excited about in this new role?
I’m especially passionate about tackling the intersection of pollution, health, and climate justice. Communities across Connecticut are facing disproportionate exposure to toxic chemicals and poor air quality. I’m excited to build coalitions that push for strong policies on clean water, renewable energy, and zero waste policies that not only protect the environment but also advance equity and public health.
You bring vast political campaigning experience. Do you have a favorite past campaign?
It’s hard to choose just one, but I’m especially proud of the campaigns where we worked to elect women and people of color to office for the first time. Helping candidates break barriers and watching them lead with authenticity has been incredibly rewarding. Those campaigns weren’t just about winning elections, they were about shifting power and building long-term representation in our communities.
We know New Haven pizza is famous, but is there another local cuisine we shouldn’t miss?
For me, it’s New Haven pizza all the way, that’s really the only reason you need to come here! When I’m craving the flavors of home, I actually have to drive to Brooklyn or Queens to find them or make them myself.
