About Us
Why BlackOak?
The Scarlet Oak (Fagaceae Quercus coccinea) in our logo is the official tree of the District of Columbia. We chose to name ourselves after this tree because we know the importance of staying rooted while branching out opportunities for others. Our fruit is in service of Black environmental self-determination. Thus, BlackOak.
Mission
BlackOak is a networking organization that aims to build a formal home for the many Black environmental communities in the DMV. We facilitate mutual support, collaboration, resource sharing, and mentorship for Black people pursuing critical work across a wide variety of environmental fields.
Create community for Black professionals and advocates in environmental and sustainability fields through our networking events and mentorship programs. We also believe that community is key to increase Black retention across environmental and sustainability careers.
Increase access to environmental and sustainability careers and job opportunities through our events and the ‘Budding Opportunities’ job board.
Dismantle silos to spur collaboration and innovation through shared community and events We aim to bring people from a wide variety of backgrounds and professions together to share strategies and partnerships in service of Black communities.
Foster collaboration and innovation between Black professionals and advocates in different environmental fields.
Our Team
