Holding History Podcast
Season 2, Episode 3
“The water likes to reclaim territory where it was previously.” - Christina Gerhardt
This episode features a conversation with author Christina Gerhardt about her book, Sea Change: An Atlas of Islands in a Rising Ocean, which centers islands most affected by climate change. The atlas highlights Indigenous and Black voices, showing how these communities are fighting for climate justice.
Gerhardt discusses her use of archives to decolonize the traditionally colonial form of the atlas. She researched historical maps at the Newberry Collection and the David Rumsey Collection to uncover environmental histories, while also turning to oral histories and public library collections to capture Indigenous perspectives.
Her work with the High Water Line project in New Jersey and Hawaii further connects past and present, using historical maps to show how rising sea levels are reclaiming land. Gerhardt urges listeners to engage locally, whether by running for office, supporting nonprofits, or contacting representatives, emphasizing that political action—especially in the U.S.—is essential in addressing climate change.
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