Overview 

Before human greed instrumentalized the extractive economy, turning both humans and the natural world into commodities to be exploited for the profit of the few, there was a world where humans could live in relative health and safety. Advancements in technology that occurred alongside the spread of the extractive economy have been used not for the benefit of all humankind but to further engorge the greedy. Industry introduced toxicity into the air, into the water, and into the soil. Systemic racism gave the ruling class a means to create sacrifice zones in areas where pollution is purposefully funneled, and where the fatal impacts on the local population are deemed unimportant. Still, communities fight back every day and, with the right tools, can see real changes. This course will trace the history and the victories of the environmental justice movement as well as lessons learned. It will also facilitate access to the tools, practices and policies that have been the key to successes in the movement. EJ 101 delves into our stark reality, highlighting the connection between Environmental Justice and Black Liberation. This course analyzes key policies like the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Superfund Act, and National Environmental Protection Act. Participants will be able to engage in local change through zoning and permitting interventions, advocate for effective policies and drive systemic change to ensure a healthier, more just environment.

Course Objectives

• Summarize the needs for models and practices to advance environmental justice for Black communities.
• Explore the disproportionate impacts related to Environment on Black communities
• Assess the utility of various community engagement and advocacy approaches to advance environmental justice.
• Examine existing policies and regulations that govern corporate behavior in relation to environmental justice and ways they can be improved.
• Formulate a racially justice action plan to advance environmental justice in marginalized communities.