Dock Member Series: Nick Graham
Nick Graham is a post-doc researchers working on ‘Climate Obstruction’
1. Tell us a bit about your organization: how do you make a positive impact in the community?
I’m not part of an organization per se but rather a postdoctoral ‘fellow’ at York University (while clearly working remotely from here in Victoria). I also often teach at UVic!
As a postdoc, most of my research looks at ‘climate obstruction’ – the organized interests that are blocking and delaying action on climate change. Mostly this work focuses on the fossil fuel industry (and fossil fuel-linked organizations, including think tanks) and their obstruction through channels like political lobbying and PR and media campaigns. I hope that understanding and exposing climate obstruction is helpful for social movements, community groups and policy makers pressing for meaningful and just climate action.
2. We’d also love to know a bit about you! What drove you to get involved in this work?
Inexplicable obsession with academic questions. But clearly also climate change is pressing. For some time, my academic work has focused on critiquing corporate power on the one hand and social and economic justice on the other hand. The focus on climate obstruction extends work on corporate power, while I believe addressing climate change is central to broader social and economic struggles.
3. What was it about theDock that encouraged you to become a member?
Burnout working at home and a good word about the Dock from a friend. The space felt comfortable and welcoming right away.
4. Could you describe a challenge you’ve faced that theDock has helped you overcome?
I’ve gotten help with data hiccups from some of the many tech savvy people at the Dock. More generally, I find it energizing to be surrounded by so many people doing great work in social impact fields.
5. What is a piece of advice you would offer to another person or group doing similar work? Feel free to reference the challenge you just mentioned, another you have overcome, or some other advice altogether!
The most satisfying experiences I’ve had have come from working in collaboration, including with non academic groups, so based on my experience, pursue those.
6. In your mind, how do you see theDock-of-the-future supporting you and other great organizations as an older and wiser Social Impact Hub?
Keep up (and expand?) social and community events.
7. One last thing: please share something (it can be either fun or serious) that you’d like people to know about you?
I’m a cyclist and (aging) soccer player, plus Arsenal supporter. I have a cat named Lucy that is super cute (cat sitters anyone?)
Checkout his 2021 book!
Find out about it in this podcast, found here.
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