It’s been just over a month since Mikie Sherrill took office as Governor of New Jersey - a historic milestone that comes at the perfect moment as we celebrate Women's History Month!
Governor Sherrill is only the second woman to serve as New Jersey’s governor, and the first Democratic woman to hold the office. Her leadership builds on a growing legacy of women breaking barriers in New Jersey politics. Over the years, women across the state have made history:
- In 2018, Sheila Oliver became the first woman of color elected to statewide office in New Jersey when she became lieutenant governor.
- In 2008, M. Teresa Ruiz became the first Latina to serve in the New Jersey Senate.
- In 2021, Sadaf Jaffer, Shama Haider, and Ellen Park made history when they became the first Asian or Pacific Islander women elected to the New Jersey Legislature.
These milestones remind us that progress is built by people who step forward, speak up, and make space for others to lead.
Women Leading the Environmental Justice Movement
At Clean Water Action, our New Jersey team, made up entirely of women, is proud to be part of that legacy. Every day, our staff works alongside communities, advocates, and lawmakers to protect clean water, reduce pollution, and advance environmental justice across the state.
Our team members shared what Women’s History Month means to them:
Being involved in the Environmental Justice movement has connected me to so many incredible, hardworking and inspiring women. Their wisdom, encouragement, and energy guide my work as a community organizer and empower me to confidently take up space where it’s needed most to achieve environmental justice for all.
Women belong in all spaces, especially those where decisions are made. Working in and around the Legislature and organizing in communities across this state has shown me how those who came before us are putting a ladder down for the next generation. The solidarity and coalition-building among women make this state stronger. I’m proud to help continue this work and fight for a cleaner, greener New Jersey.
Women who are making this world a better place are found in every walk of life. They may be the quietest in the room, but often they are making the biggest impact. They have helped shape this world and will continue to lead the way forward.
As women, we often bring different perspectives and approaches to organizing, collaborating, and policymaking. We are fiercely determined to stop polluters and the harm they cause to our bodies, communities, and environment. Clean Water Action’s more than 50 years of success is history-making — much of it led by women, including our incredible New Jersey team.
The Next Chapter: Fighting Pollution in New Jersey
With a new legislative session underway and Governor Sherrill in office, we have a critical opportunity to address one of New Jersey’s most urgent environmental threats: diesel pollution from the state’s rapidly growing network of ports and warehouses.
Communities near these facilities, often already overburdened by pollution, face serious health risks from truck traffic, diesel exhaust, and industrial emissions. That’s why Clean Water Action is pushing for strong action from state leaders to:
- Advance the Warehouse & Port Pollution Bill (A2740/S2339)
- Strengthen clean air protections
- Invest in medium- and heavy-duty truck electrification
- Hold polluters accountable
- Protect workers and overburdened communities
Take Action Today!
Women have helped shape New Jersey’s history, and together we can help shape its future. You can make your voice heard right now:
- Tell your legislators to advance the Warehouse & Port Pollution Bill (A2740/S2339)
- Urge Governor Sherrill to stand up for clean trucks and clean air
Together, we can honor the legacy of women who paved the way - and ensure that the next chapter of New Jersey’s history is cleaner, healthier, and more just for everyone.
