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ADVOCACY CAMPAIGNS
As part of its commitment to
advance progress in and out of the
field of geography…
… AAG pursues specific policy goals guided by our core Tenets. Learn more, find out how you can take action, and connect with a network of fellow advocates within the issues below.
Climate Change
Our rapidly changing global climate is impacting humans and the environment in a multitude of ways. Now is the time for urgent, collective action to combat this crisis. Geographers are uniquely positioned to contribute to our understanding of climate change, the complex spatial dimensions of its causes and effects, and the solutions needed to protect our most vulnerable communities as the world changes around us.
Learn about AAG’s action on climate change
Geography for Inclusion
The AAG has an obligation to illuminate the importance of geography to our elected officials as they work toward comprehensive and systemic change. Our nation’s history with race is intertwined with geography at every chapter, and public policy that aims to advance equality and rectify deep-seated injustice must take into account geospatial history and context.
AAG JEDI Committee: Recommitting to Our Core Values
Supporting Science
Research compiled and built by Geographers feeds policy and regulatory structures throughout institutions across government. It is crucial that geographers have partners within government who are willing to support them, whether their research is critical of political expectations or not. The AAG is committed to ensuring that geographers’ needs are met by institutional partners in government, and that integrity of their research is prioritized comprehensively.
Read AAG’s letter about the termination of staff at NSF HEGS program
Redistricting
Once a decade, states get to redraw the legislative maps that affect resources and representation for every American. It is critical to include geographers in that process to ensure fair outcomes. Our community of experts must activate in our respective states to gain a seat at the table and hold leaders accountable.
More about the issue
Tenets
The AAG policy principles
Our advocacy initiatives are guided by five key policy principles:
Academic freedom and scientific discourse are essential components to a just and well-functioning society. Access to information and opportunity must remain open and accessible to all.
To ensure fair resources and a high quality of life for growing populations, mapping by governments and communities must be done in transparent and inclusive ways. Expert professional geographers help make sure that mapping is equitable and just.
The AAG will advocate for any geographer facing direct infringement of their fundamental human rights. Geographers are central to understanding and mitigating the effects of the global climate crisis, and fixing related injustices.
The AAG seeks to sustain geographers from the beginning of education through retirement by bolstering institutions, advocating for funding, supporting programs, and utilizing assessments.
The AAG has a duty to ensure that all geographers have equal access to resources, training, meetings and professional opportunities. Vigilant support for these principles is essential throughout the discipline.