John Seakwood

This month, we are honored to welcome John Seakwood, a dedicated environmental advocate whose work bridges faith, activism, and intergenerational justice.

As a founding member of Third Act Upstate New York, John plays a pivotal role in mobilizing individuals aged 60 and older to confront climate change and safeguard democracy for future generations. His leadership within the national Third Act movement underscores a commitment to leaving a habitable planet for our children and grandchildren.

In addition to his efforts with Third Act, John co-founded the Rivers & Mountains GreenFaith Circle, an interfaith group dedicated to promoting the ethical imperative of addressing the climate crisis. This initiative emphasizes the moral responsibility to protect frontline communities and uphold the values of faith and justice. (Rivers & Mountains GreenFaith Circle recently signed on as an endorsing organization in support of the We the People Amendment).

John Seakwood has been an activist since childhood. Early experiences in the natural world guided him towards a fierce desire to protect it. Educated at Williams College, he spent his professional life as a free-lance photographer, primarily on Hollywood films including “Coming to America,” “The Godfather Part 3,” and “Presumed Innocent.” His work took him around the globe — London, Paris, India, Kenya. One of his photographs is included in the collection of the National Portrait Gallery in London, another was used as an album cover for Johnny Cash. 

Demonstrating his advocacy in action, John organized constituents of Representative Richard "Richie" Neal from Massachusetts's First Congressional District to support H.J.R. 54, the “We the People” Amendment. This amendment aims to restore democratic principles by affirming that political spending is not equivalent to free speech and that corporations are not entitled to constitutional rights.

John's unwavering dedication to environmental and social justice serves as an inspiration to all committed to creating a sustainable and equitable future.