Madonna Thunder Hawk has been a powerful force in Native American activism and environmental protection. From her role in the Red Power Movement to her work with the Lakota People’s Law Project, she has spent decades advocating for justice and environmental rights, serving as an advisor to the Warrior Women Project and the Director of Grassroots Organizing for the Red Road Institute. This grant supports photographers whose work reflects solutions-based environmental storytelling, inspired by Madonna Thunder Hawk’s legacy of resilience and advocacy.
The E.O. Wilson Environmental Photography Grant ($5,000)
Dr. E.O. Wilson, a pioneering biologist, revolutionised modern conservation science with his “Half-Earth” concept, which calls for protecting half of Earth’s surface to curb the global extinction crisis. His work continues to inspire global efforts to safeguard biodiversity through the E.O. Wilson Biodiversity Foundation‘s Half-Earth Project. This grant supports photographers capturing stories that bridge the gap between humanity and nature, aiming to protect and restore ecosystems.
Grant Requirements
Vital Impacts is looking for photographers with a deep connection to their local communities who are passionate about capturing environmental issues and solutions. Recipients must focus on documenting stories within their own communities, helping to elevate local journalism and reporting. Only photographers who are rooted in the communities they aim to highlight will be considered.
While prior publication is not required, Vital Impacts encourages applications from visual journalists who have been working on long-term projects with a strong relationship to their subjects. In addition to the seven grants, ten emerging photographers will be selected for an intensive mentorship program designed to support their professional growth. All applicants will also have access to a comprehensive online mentorship series to help explore environmental storytelling.
Learn more about the 2024 Vital Impacts Environmental Photography Grants and Mentorships at https://vitalimpacts.org/pages/the-vital-impacts-environmental-photography-grant.
