Since 2015, the Community Sentinel Award for Environmental Stewardship has honored individuals tirelessly working to protect the environment and promote justice in their communities. Co-founded by FracTracker Alliance and Halt the Harm Network, this award recognizes the extraordinary dedication of those addressing the harmful impacts of fossil fuels and advocating for a sustainable future.
As we celebrate this milestone, we reflect on a decade of resilience, courage, and hope. This year’s awards honor the enduring legacy of all who have contributed to this movement and continue to champion the fight for a cleaner, more equitable world.
“The impacts of the oil and gas industry are felt across the country: pipelines disrupt forests and farmland, communities face fracking and petrochemical pollution, waterways are littered with plastics, and the climate crisis intensifies with every passing day,” says Marty Kearns, executive director of Netcentric Campaigns and a member of the Halt the Harm Network Operations Team.
“In the face of these challenges, hope persists. Farmers, parents, students, scientists, and community leaders are standing strong—documenting, reporting, and taking action against the harms caused by the fossil fuel industry. Their resilience forms the foundation of a growing movement for change,” Kearns adds.
This year’s honorees exemplify what it means to fight for justice—not just for their communities, but for the world at large. Their work underscores the importance of collective action and demonstrates the power of grassroots advocacy to pave the way for a sustainable future.
This year, we received over 30 inspiring nominations, highlighting the breadth of grassroots leadership across the country. A panel of distinguished judges selected four award recipients, with a fifth chosen by the community.
Meet the 2024 Community Sentinel Awardees:
NaTisha C. Washington
NaTisha is the Communications Manager at the Breathe Project, where she collaborates with over 60 organizations to inform communities about air quality and petrochemical issues. She is also a Wilkinsburg Borough Council Member, a founder, and a small business owner, tirelessly advocating for equitable and healthy communities.
Andrea W. Pierce
Andrea, a citizen of the Little Traverse Bay Bands of Odawa Indians, is the Policy Director at the Michigan Environmental Justice Coalition and a leader in campaigns to protect tribal lands and treaty rights. Her work spans organizing, advocacy, and coalition-building to defend Indigenous lands and stop harmful pipeline projects.
Roishetta Sibley Ozane
Roishetta is the founder and CEO of The Vessel Project of Louisiana, which provides mutual aid and environmental justice services. She is a global advocate for clean air, water, and sustainable communities, and her leadership has earned her international recognition in the fight against fossil fuels.
Patricia J. Popple (Community Choice)
Patricia’s advocacy began with her opposition to a frac sand processing plant near her home and has since expanded to address the broader impacts of the fossil fuel industry. Her commitment to conservation and public health spans more than 16 years, embodying grassroots persistence and community leadership.
Quinn Eide (Emerging Leader)
Quinn is the Executive Director of Fossil Free California, working to divest major pensions from fossil fuels. Their innovative “kayactivism” initiatives blend direct action with community engagement, making them a leader in the fight for a sustainable future.
Each award recipient will receive a $1,000 honorarium, a commemorative award, and access to tools and resources to amplify their work.
Special thanks to our 2024 Judges:
- Brett Nadrich, Break Free From Plastic
- Chante’ Davis, Sunrise Movement
- Martha Dina Argüello, Physicians for Social Responsibility Los Angeles
- Anne Rolfes, Louisiana Bucket Brigade
Day of Event Details:
The 2024 Community Sentinel Awards Ceremony will feature inspiring speakers, music, and community celebration. We are honored to welcome keynote speaker Dr. Carolyn Finney, a cultural geographer and storyteller, and Eddie Mitchell, a grassroots organizer from Ireland who has championed efforts to ban fracking and prevent LNG development. Music Performances by David Pfister and Andrew Woomer, local talents blending Americana sounds and energizing vibes.
You can attend online or in-person, reserve your spot today!
Mark your calendar for Wednesday, December 4, 2024, and join us in Pittsburgh or online. Together, let’s honor the extraordinary individuals leading the charge for environmental and social justice.
Let’s celebrate the movement, the milestones, and the leaders driving it forward at the 2024 Community Sentinel Awards!