Sarah Stokes, a senior lawyer in SELCs Alabama, was recently featured by The Alabama Lawyers Women in Law. Stokes long-standing advocacy for clean air, water, and healthy communities throughout Alabama is highlighted in the profile. Here is Sarah’s story about how she got to SELC and what motivates her to keep working to create a healthy environment in Alabama.
Stokes was previously honored by the Cahaba River Society, as the Cahaba Conservationists of the Year, and the Alabama Rivers Alliance, as a River Hero. In 2018, Stokes was honored by the University of Alabama School of Law with a Profile in Service award. She was also selected to be a member of the 2021-2022 Alabama Leadership Initiative Class.
Stokes has been tirelessly advocating for clean water and air in Alabama’s courts and legislature for the past 12 years. In addition to her role as the leader of stormwater management, Stokes also oversees the Birmingham internship program.
Stokes received her undergraduate degree at Dartmouth College. She also earned a masters degree at the London School of Economics and a juris Doctorate from the University of Alabama School of Law. She clerked at Rosen Harwood P.A. while in law school. She was also a research assistant to Dr. Norman Singer in Ethiopia. Before entering law school, she was a research assistant to Dr. Norman Singer in Ethiopia.
Stokes responded to a question about advice for future female law students by saying that successful collaborations are more productive then successful individuals. To build successful collaborations, use your woman power. Exercise, resilience, and a supportive partner are some of the things you can do.
Listen to the full profile. Alabama LawyerAlabama State Bar featured the following: Here.
Which cases have been more challenging and rewarding over the past 12 year?
I enjoy our work as representatives of GASP (the Greater-Birmingham Alliance to Stop Pollution), as we attempt to reduce harmful air emissions from Birmingham’s coke plants. This work has tangible results for the neighbors next to us, who have to breathe toxic air every single day. Bluestone Coke has ceased operation after we reached an agreement with ABC Coke. If Bluestone wanted to reopen operations, they would need to comply with the Clean Air Act and keep safety and well-being in mind. It is gratifying to see families’ lives improve every day.
Second, we have been very pleased with our collaboration with Coosa Riverkeeper to address stormwater issues in construction throughout the state. After we sent a notice letter about a particular site that was causing problems, the company decided to use better environmental practices on all their sites. They would rather do things the right way, even though it will cost them more in the short term. However, it will save them money over the long-term. They also sent a letter to homebuyers outlining the environmental practices involved in building their homes. It is gratifying to know we were able collectively to find a solution that protects streams.
Finally, I can think of a way to help block Cahaba beach Road. Birmingham’s drinking water would be at risk if the road was built near Lake Purdy. Together with Cahaba River Society, Cahaba Riverkeeper and us, we talked to Birminghams City Council. They passed a resolution opposing the road, informing Federal Highway Administration that Birmingham does not want the road.
Which mentors were there to help you in your career?
My mother was a pioneer in her profession as a lawyer and mother to three wonderful children. Despite her support for my dreams, she would stay up late to help prepare me for debates. She also warned me about the challenges of being an attorney. She still tells us, “Hard work is good!” I am grateful to have such a role model.
What is your favorite place that inspires you?
My family lives in Hoovers Moss Rock Preserve. It is a 350-acre preserve that has become a special spot for me to reflect and heal. The four-mile loop, which I use to walk alone or with my sons, reminds me of Alabama’s natural beauty. And what it means if we don’t protect it.
When did you discover your first love for the environment and its beauty?
I was fortunate to have come from a family that loved nature and probably owned the first Prius my neighborhood. My parents were my inspirations. We used to go swimming in Little River Canyon, and camping in the Cohutta Wilderness of Georgia for spring break. After I was an environmental educator in the Peace Corps, I received my master’s from the London School of Economics where I learned that institutions and the rule of law affect peoples happiness. I became a lawyer to help create institutions and laws that would make the planet a better place.
SELC works to protect Alabama’s people and places.