Overview 

It is critical that the places in which we live, work, play and pray are safe and healthy facilities. Buildings should preserve our health, protecting us from the elements and providing comfort and security in our lives. Current buildings often harm Black communities, perpetuating inequities and environmental injustices – from being contaminated with lead paint and radon or being less energy efficient than buildings in other communities, thus leading to increased energy bills, and or being less disaster resilient. Even new regulations to improve these situations often focus on future buildings, leaving already underserved communities behind. Our leadership is imperative to ensuring that we all have access to healthy, safe, and affordable buildings. This program explores these systemic issues through the lens of Black Liberation and presents strategies for creating equitable, sustainable, and inclusive buildings. Participants will be equipped to advocate for practices that prioritize the needs of Black communities, fostering healthier building environments.

Course Objectives 

• Summarize the needs for Sustainable Building practices to advance equitable outcomes for Black communities.  
• Explain current inequities and disparities in the planning and sustainable building processes.  
• Assess the utility of various community engagement and advocacy approaches to advance equity in the sustainable building sector.  
• Examine existing policies, practices, regulations, and advocacy activities that govern building activities and sustainable building outcomes.  
• Formulate a racially justice action plan to advance green development initiatives in marginalized communities.