How can art change the way we see the air we breathe? Students at New Rochelle High School are answering that question with Air of Truth, a groundbreaking multimedia exhibit that opens with a special reception on Wednesday, January 8, 2025, at 5:00 PM at the High School’s Museum of Arts and Culture. 

The exhibit invites community members, officials, and advocates to explore the intersections of environmental data, historical inequities, and actionable solutions.  It will run from January 6 through January 24 and can be viewed by appointment during school hours.  (To schedule a visit, contact abrock@nredlearn.org.)

Using air quality data provided by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center (EJLPC) for this purpose, students have studied local pollution disparities from an environmental science perspective. Their findings highlight the unequal impacts of air pollution, particularly on Black and Brown communities, and connect these challenges to historical injustices like redlining. Through photography, video, painting, and sculpture, the students have transformed these insights into a bold and interactive exploration of environmental justice.

“These students are learning the skills of science communication and advocacy,” says Carmen Glenn,  NRHS Environmental Science Teacher and project mentor.  “They have uncovered data and are telling the story in the data to their community.  They have turned the data into something you can see, feel and act on.  This exhibit is their microphone and they are making sure their story is heard.”

“We thank the New York State Office of Environmental Justice for partnering with our community to explore this cutting edge data, powered by Aclima,” says Raya Salter, Exec. Dir. of EJLPC. “This is empowering communities and local officials to work with the state on developing solutions to historical environmental justice challenges.”

Air of Truth is a youth-led initiative transforming air quality data into stories that inspire change. Supported by the Energy Justice Law and Policy Center, the project amplifies the voices of students and community leaders. It seeks to educate the public, raise awareness about air quality and environmental justice, and foster collaboration with communities, government officials, and stakeholders to implement solutions aligned with New York State’s Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act (CLCPA). Learn more at www.AirOfTruth.org. 

Opening Reception Details

Date: Wednesday, January 8, 2025
Time: 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Location: Museum of Arts and Culture, New Rochelle High School
(House 4 parking lot by tennis courts, Off Braemar & North Ave)