Across the United States, efforts to reduce recidivism and uplift marginalized communities are gaining momentum through innovative programs. In Texas, a unique solar installation training initiative is making significant strides, particularly among Black, low-income residents in Houston.
The Texas Department of Criminal Justice reports a recidivism rate of just 16.9%, one of the nation’s lowest. Contributing to this success are workforce programs targeting historically underserved communities.
A prime example is the 22-week solar training program led by the Black United Fund of Texas, the City of Houston, and Green Thumb Academy. This summer, Leon Dillard, released from prison in September 2024, joined approximately 50 others to gain skills in solar installation, a burgeoning field destined to transform the energy landscape of their hometown, often dubbed “the energy capital of the world.”
“It gave me a sense of purpose,” Dillard shared, emphasizing the transformative impact of the program, which provided not only technical skills and industry-recognized certification but also hope and opportunity.
Environmental and Social Challenges in Houston
In Houston’s Fifth Ward, a legacy of environmental neglect has left its mark. Residents have long faced the dangers of coal tar pollution from a nearby rail yard, leading to significantly lower life expectancies compared to more affluent neighborhoods, according to Capital B News.
Participants like Dillard view the solar program as a chance to drive environmental change, addressing the pollution that has historically plagued their communities. “Being a part of [the program] felt like creating history,” he told Capital B. “Learning the trade with people from similar backgrounds [not only] gave us something to offer back to society, but also ourselves.”
The hands-on training involved classroom instruction and practical exercises, equipping students with knowledge on electrical systems, safety standards, and solar technology. Timesha Beattie of Green Thumb Academy inspired trainees by highlighting the value of their new credentials.
“Once you earn these credentials, nobody can ever take them away. You are going to be able to take back to your families, the knowledge, the information, the credentials,” Beattie said, per Capital B.
Federal Policy Changes Impacting Solar Initiatives
The solar training program’s viability was challenged when federal support came under scrutiny. Initially funded by a $20 million EPA grant under President Joe Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act, the program faced uncertainty with President Donald Trump’s executive order to cut funding for diversity, equity, and inclusion programs.
U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi further curtailed environmental priorities for underserved communities, and subsequent directives led to the cancellation of significant solar funding for minority and low-income neighborhoods. As a result, participation in the Houston training program declined.
Despite these challenges, the Black United Fund of Texas found ways to sustain the program through community support and grassroots funding. “We’ve worked before without literal dollars,” Velika Thomas, CFO, stated in February, as reported by Capital B.
Solar Energy Growth and Future Prospects
While Texas ranks second in solar energy use, following California, the need for consistent federal investment remains crucial for expanding local clean energy initiatives. Experts advocate for renewed public funding to support these efforts.
Thomas underscores the importance of investing in her community despite funding setbacks. “As a Black person, I have not felt that America has ever put us at the forefront,” she told Capital B. “We are not a waste; the community is not a waste.”
Original Story at afrotech.com