Rev. Vernon K. Walker, Social Justice Advocate

03/10/2026

Honored to have my quote featured on the Honos Civicus Society page from Tufts University Jonathan M. Tisch College of Civic Life.

As a Tufts alum, it’s meaningful to see the continued commitment to civic leadership, service, and community impact.

Grateful to be part of a community that values engagement beyond the classroom.

Launched by Tisch College in 2009, the Honos Civicus Society selects and publicly recognizes graduating students who engaged in meaningful service and leadership activities or otherwise strengthened civic life on campus and beyond during their time at Tufts. Available to undergraduates and graduates...

12/16/2025

💧 New Episode: Don’t Drink the Water, featuring Reverend Vernon Walker! Across Appalachia and Black communities nationwide, the water coming from our taps tells a story - one shaped by decades of disinvestment, environmental racism, and political neglect. From Flint to Jackson, families are still facing lead in their pipes, unaffordable water bills, and crumbling infrastructure that should’ve been fixed generations ago.

Even though the Safe Drinking Water Act promises clean water for all, reality paints a different picture: drinking water systems that broke federal law for years were 40% more likely to be in communities with higher populations of people of color. And when violations did trigger action? Black communities waited longer for solutions.

In today’s episode, we dive into the real threats to our drinking water, from industrial pollution to agricultural runoff to aging infrastructure, and what it will take to secure safe, affordable water for everyone.

🎙️ Tune in to “Don’t Drink the Water” and join the conversation at https://blackappalachiancoalition.substack.com/p/850a82ed-9f56-45a5-b938-8dbaaabbf257

12/14/2025

As a current online graduate student at Brown, I’m deeply saddened by yesterday's events. 💔 No community should have to face such fear on campus.

My thoughts and prayers are with all students, faculty, staff, and families affected. The resilience and care of the Brown community will carry us through.

Hundreds of police officers were searching for the gunman after he escaped into the streets of Rhode Island’s capital, officials said.

12/03/2025

I was honored to be featured on the latest Black Appalachian Coalition (BLAC) podcast!

This episode lifts up the voices, experiences, and leadership of Black Appalachians, and I’m grateful to share in this important conversation about justice, community, and the future of our region.

Tap in, listen, and share to help amplify this work:

The Human Cost Contamination And the Fight for Clean Water

05/04/2025

Rev. Vernon K. Walker, Jr. (’16) speaks to the Intersectionality of Environmental Issues at Framingham State University The following is an excerpt from The Gatepost article by Ryan O’Connell, “Reverend Vernon Walker shares climate advocacy experience: Seasoned director of grassroots social ju...

04/12/2025

"We, each of us, individually and collectively hold the power to work toward a world in which all people can live lives of dignity, wellbeing, and love," shared

By Ryan O’Connell Associate Editor Arts & Ideas, in conjunction with Campus Sustainability Coordinator Megan Mayer, hosted the Rev. Vernon Walker to speak on the importance of climate policy and his experience working toward legislation April 3. Mayer introduced Walker, who has held a number of le...

04/07/2025

With so much bad news happening in the world today, I hope if you watch the recording of my remarks from the Arts and Ideas at Framingham State University sponsored event on 4/3/25, you will find encouragement to keep on fighting for climate and social justice!

04/02/2025

Currently we have Federal Executive Orders that undermine climate justice and a presidential administration that does not believe in climate change.

Alternatively, I am looking forward to speaking to students at Framingham State University 4/3/25 about a vision for continuing to advocate for just climate policies. You are welcome to join us if you are in the area!

02/20/2025

I was delighted to be part of this alumni panel at Penn State University Brandywine campus on 2/18/25! It was a dynamic time to interact with students and other alumni of color!