Kilmer Congratulates Local Resident Honored for Being White House ‘Champion of Change’
Representative Derek Kilmer congratulated Ed Johnstone of Taholah, Washington today as he was honored by the White House for being a community leader in raising climate change awareness. Mr. Johnstone was one of twelve citizens honored by the White House, which commended business and community leaders today who are working to prepare their communities for the consequences of climate change.
Mr. Johnstone is a member of the Quinault Indian Nation and has helped raise awareness of climate change impacts on the ecosystems and fisheries that support the Quinault’s culture and economy.
“Ed is a strong voice for the Quinault Indian Nation who does an excellent job raising awareness about the need for action to address climate change,” said Representative Derek Kilmer. “It’s not just about preserving our environment. It’s about protecting our economic interests. We need to make America a global leader on clean energy technology and energy efficiency in a way that helps reduce energy costs, creates good-paying jobs, and supports the culture and economy of tribal communities. Climate change will negatively impact our state’s agriculture and shellfish industries, forests, and salmon habitat unless we stand for change. Today I commend and congratulate Ed on this honor and for all of his work fighting to protect our precious natural resources.”