Week 9: Melenated Excellence

Week 9: Building Sustainable Communities: Environmental Justice and Advocacy

By Michael Mitchell

Environmental justice is a critical component of sustainable community building, particularly in melanated communities that have historically faced disproportionate environmental burdens. These communities, often located near hazardous waste sites, industrial plants, or in areas with poor air and water quality, are victims of environmental racism—a term coined to describe the unequal exposure to environmental hazards based on race and socioeconomic status.

At the heart of the environmental justice movement is the effort to advocate for clean air, water, and soil, as well as for policies that prioritize the health and well-being of vulnerable populations. Research shows that communities of color are significantly more likely to suffer from poor environmental conditions, which contribute to higher rates of health issues like asthma, cancer, and heart disease (Bullard, 1993). This is especially true in urban areas, where Black and Latino populations often live in neighborhoods with higher levels of pollution and fewer green spaces.

Organizations like the NAACP’s Environmental and Climate Justice Program and the Environmental Justice Health Alliance are pivotal in advocating for these communities. Their work focuses on grassroots organizing, litigation, and policy reform aimed at reducing pollution and increasing access to clean, sustainable resources. These groups have been instrumental in pushing for changes such as the Clean Power Plan and efforts to address the Flint water crisis.

Building sustainable communities requires addressing environmental justice through equitable urban planning, renewable energy projects, and community-led initiatives. By placing advocacy at the forefront, we can ensure that melanated communities not only survive but thrive in healthier environments for generations to come.

References:

• Bullard, R. D. (1993). Confronting Environmental Racism: Voices from the Grassroots. South End Press.

• NAACP Environmental and Climate Justice Program. (n.d.). Retrieved from naacp.org

• Environmental Justice Health Alliance. (n.d.). Retrieved from ej4all.org