Dear President Joseph R. Biden, Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken and Assistant Climate Advisor Ali Zaidi

I am writing to bring your attention to an article recently published in the New Yorker, titled "The Nutmeg’s Curse," authored by Amitav Ghosh. This article delves into the historical exploitation of resources and the subsequent impacts on our global climate. As an educator at Green Design STEAM Academy , a school specializing in environmental studies, I find the insights presented in this article profoundly relevant to our current discourse on climate change and sustainable practices.

Ghosh's narrative traces back to the 17th century, highlighting the ruthless tactics employed by the Dutch East India Company (V.O.C.) in their pursuit of a monopoly on nutmeg trade. The article underscores the interconnectedness of extraction, violence, and empire-building throughout human history, and how these dynamics have contributed to our present environmental challenges. Ghosh provocatively suggests that our planet, after centuries of exploitation, may be retaliating through phenomena such as wildfires, storms, and droughts - a poignant analogy to the Dutch military tactic of "brandschattingen" or threatening with arson.

Moreover, the article critiques contemporary approaches to addressing climate change, particularly market-based solutions advocated by many governments. Despite efforts such as emissions trading and carbon taxes, global emissions continue to rise, and we consistently fall short of achieving meaningful progress in mitigating climate change. Ghosh challenges the notion that market mechanisms alone can bring about the necessary transformational change, pointing out the inherent flaws in a worldview where everything, including the environment, is considered a resource for exploitation and lets face CAPITALISM and inherent feature of our government.

What resonates deeply with me as an educator is the growing awareness among students about the urgency of climate action. They are increasingly demanding a curriculum that addresses not only the science of climate change but also its socio-political dimensions and the imperative for systemic change. This article serves as a catalyst for fostering critical thinking and engagement among our students, encouraging them to question dominant narratives and explore alternative frameworks for addressing climate challenges.

As we navigate the complexities of global politics and diplomacy, it is imperative that we recognize the interconnectedness of environmental issues with broader socio-economic and historical contexts. The narratives presented in Ghosh's article underscore the need for a paradigm shift in how we conceptualize and address climate change - one that prioritizes equity, justice, and the protection of our planet's ecosystems.

Therefore, I urge you to consider integrating discussions on articles like "The Nutmeg’s Curse" into policy dialogues and educational initiatives. By fostering a deeper understanding of the historical roots of our environmental predicament, we can better equip future leaders to navigate the complexities of climate governance and advocate for transformative change on both national and international scales.

Thank you for your attention to this matter. I look forward to continuing this dialogue and working together with my students towards achieving a youth prepared to fight for and understand the complexities of a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet.

Sincerely,

ZoAnne DiFonzo-Aguilar