Ann Knotek

Ann Knotek and her daughters protest the proposed Cleveland garbage incinerator in 2013.

What was your first contact with Ohio Citizen Action?

I attended a community meeting concerning the proposed Cleveland incinerator. I didn't know at the time, but Ohio Citizen Action was involved in organizing that meeting -- which then led to my further involvement with the Cleveland Incinerator campaign and Ohio Citizen Action.

What do you consider to be your area of expertise?

From a business perspective, I am capable of researching and analyzing data. From a human interest perspective, I see the relevance of Ohio Citizen Action in the community and would like to help in keeping the organization viable.

Do you have an environmental motto or quote you find describes your political/environmental motivation?

The “Seventh Generation” principle, attributed to the Native Americans, says that in every decision, be it personal, governmental, or corporate, we must consider how it will affect our descendents seven generations into the future. Seriously, I'd be happy if we could start with considering even one generation into the future.

What about the organization appeals to you?

In working with Ohio Citizen Action on the Cleveland Incinerator campaign, I was impressed by their knowledge, thoroughness, and concrete approach -- qualities that attract me when considering working within a group. Also, my experiences with the Cleveland Incinerator campaign showed me how important an organization like Ohio Citizen Action is to the individual like myself, who wants to get involved but doesn't know how to channel that energy; as well as how important they are to the community as a whole -- helping to organize that "collective voice" that is out there but not necessarily being heard.

On what other issues do you work or are you passionate about?

I'm passionate about a lot of issues -- food is a big one for me.  That includes many areas -- food security; GMOs; pesticide and antibiotic use; soil quality/organic composting; eating real food; and improving our health by changing the way we eat.

What makes Ohio Citizen Action special?

For the individual and for the community, Ohio Citizen Action offers something unique and important.  An individual has access to a group of knowledgeable people who offer concrete approaches to getting involved.