CHN Member Spotlight: Ilana Murphy, LaC

Where are you from and where do you live now?

I am from Marin County, just across the Golden Gate Bridge from San Francisco, where I currently live.

What type of healthcare are you involved with?

I am an acupuncturist, herbalist, and functional medicine practitioner.

Was there a specific event or experience that caused you to become concerned about climate change?

I don't really identify a specific event or experience that 'woke me up' to climate change. Sadly, it has been a consistent story throughout my life with the volume steadily increasing to an undeniable roar. 

When and how did you become involved in climate advocacy?

I was fortunate to attend a public high school that offered "academies," specialized mini-schools withing the larger school, similar to a college major. I chose the environmental science academy, which focused more than half of my classes around environmental science themes and projects.

Who inspires you to do this type of work?

I love learning from Paul Hawken and Joanna Macy, among others. They both encourage acknowledging and stepping up to the unique challenges of being born into this moment. ("Every problem is a pathway to transformation." -Paul Hawken)

Are you working on any environmental justice projects currently?

I just applied, with a group of 3 other amazing women and CHN members, to the Climate Health Organizing Fellows Program. The fellowship offers training and mentorship in community organizing, and I hope there will be a lot of training around environmental justice woven in. Edited to add: they were accepted into the Fellowship!

What do you do to recharge?

Spend time in nature! Exercise. Socialize. Enjoy art and music. Travel, near or far.

What are two books that left an impact on you?

I am currently listening to Braiding Sweetgrass (audiobook), which is amazing! An old favorite is The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks.