Despite widespread support for clean energy across the state, its an issue that constituents aren’t typically vocal about. Legislators hear from the same people, causing legislation to stall and resulting in a missed opportunity of hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue that neighboring states have already captured.
In partnership with Conservation Voters of South Carolina (CVSC), we launched the Dear South Carolina tour. From Beasts of the Southern Wild’s reflection on the aftermath faced by African-American communities after Hurricane Katrina to The Burden’s look at the military’s energy dependance, we used films to engage audiences that legislators don’t typically hear from on this issue. Following the films, attendees shared messages with legislators calling for a transition to clean energy. To increase accountability, legislators were invited to select screenings where they had the chance to respond to constituents and we were able to capture their stance on clean energy on camera.
Photos: CVSC
CVSC rallied this new base of supporters at the S.C. State House, creating visible support for clean energy that could no longer be ignored. In May 2019, despite a well organized opposition, the Energy Freedom Act passed unanimously in the House and Senate, a landmark piece of legislation that will make solar energy a more competitive option across the state.
See more at www.DearSouthCarolina.com
Explore the Dear Legislator poster tools that help connect the voices of constituents with legislators.
From veterans to church-goers, we activated thousands of community members across 10 counties.
Marked increase in legislative contacts contributed to unanimous passage of the Energy Freedom Act
9 legislators attended events – 7 (R), 2 (D) – sharing their support for clean energy on the record.
Through our statewide film tour, we are elevating local conservation issues and building the political will needed for clean energy legislation.
