Third ‘Upwell: A Wave of Ocean Justice’ Symposium Spotlights Continued Fight for Ocean Justice

On June 3rd, the Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Azul, and Urban Ocean Lab welcomed fellow environmental and ocean policy, organizations, ocean-climate leaders and advocates to Upwell: A Wave of Ocean Justice. The event, supported by the Center for American Progress, Earthjustice, Green 2.0, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Ocean Defense Initiative, was held for the third consecutive year in person and online, and focused on the rising tide of justice and equity in ocean policy by highlighting the stories, experiences, and voices of historically-excluded and marginalized communities in ocean conservation. With welcome remarks by Azul’s Founder and Executive Director, Marce Gutiérrez-Graudiņš, and featured panels — ranging from high-profile keynotes to panel addresses — the conference addressed timely issues at the forefront of the movement for ocean-climate action.

“The Aquarium Conservation Partnership is thrilled to co-host Upwell: A Wave of Ocean Justice — a groundbreaking event that brings together voices, stories, and solutions from across coastal and inland communities. As aquariums, we see firsthand how ocean health is deeply connected to human well-being — including how interacting with marine animals up close can bring people such joy,” said Ayana Melvan, Senior Director of Conservation Action at ACP. “Ocean justice is about ensuring that all communities, especially those historically excluded, have equitable access to a healthy ocean and a role in shaping its future. This is not just environmental work — it’s about justice, resilience, and collective stewardship of our blue planet.”

“We all depend on a healthy ocean — an ocean which knows no political party,” said Marce Gutiérrez-Graudiņš, Founder & Executive Director of Azul. “Changes in decision-makers nationwide do not change the mission that led us to establish Upwell: to create a space that prioritizes the experiences of people who have been historically excluded in ocean conservation, while celebrating their expertise. As the ocean justice movement navigates new waters, we remain committed to building community and advancing collective action. In the face of challenges, there is also possibility, and we will continue investing in strategies rooted in justice, equity, and hope.”

“It’s abundantly clear that local action from cities and state governments — for adapting to climate change impacts and implementing climate solutions — has never been more important,” said Jenisha Shrestha, chief of staff at Urban Ocean Lab, and project manager for the Ocean Justice Forum. “At Upwell, we are showcasing this leadership, and showing how we can keep the momentum to better prepare coastal communities for the future.”

The event included keynote remarks from Shantha Ready Alonso, Executive Director of the America the Beautiful for All Coalition, Raimundo Espinoza, Founder and Executive Director of Conservación ConCiencia, and Nina Lagpacan, Program Officer, Oceankind. Panels include diverse topics such as “Fighting for Ocean Justice: Defending Disaster Relief Programs”, “Keeping the Momentum on Coastal Climate Solutions,” and “The Real Journey to Representation in Leadership.” Additionally, the one-day event featured artist in residence, Xavier Cortada, who spoke about the power of interactive community art for climate and biodiversity and showcased his “Hello” and “Letters to the Future” projects.

“The ocean justice community continues to stand strong despite the consistent barrage of attacks on diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives across the country,” said Kat So, Campaign Manager at Center for American Progress. “Upwell has always been a space that centers the voices and experiences of marginalized communities and we will continue to strive to advance equitable ocean policies that represent the diversity of the country.”

“As we’ve shifted to the new political tides, our commitment to ocean justice has remained solid,” said Kristin Butler, Legislative Representative at Earthjustice. “Upwell reminds us why it’s more important than ever to create spaces to build community and celebrate each other’s wins. We’re stronger and more resilient when we center ocean justice in disaster preparedness and climate solutions across all levels of government and leadership, including within our own organizations.”

“Ocean justice needs to be our north star in approaches to conservation,” said Juliana Ojeda, Program Operations Manager at Green 2.0. “Upwell is our opportunity to prioritize ocean policy that is built by those most impacted by its degradation, and convene leaders who are committed to strengthening ocean protections using strategies rooted in resilience, action, and equity.”

The Aquarium Conservation Partnership, Azul, and Urban Ocean Lab event was supported by the Center for American Progress, Earthjustice, Green 2.0, Natural Resources Defense Council, and the Ocean Defense Initiative — with funding provided by the David and Lucile Packard Foundation, Ocean Conservancy, National Aquarium, Seattle Aquarium, Monterey Bay Aquarium, Shedd Aquarium, and Bonsai Leadership Group.