Intersection of Racial & Environmental Justice
Environmental justice and racial justice are two interconnected issues that disproportionately affect black, indigenous, and people of color (BIPOC) communities. The intersection of these two issues is an important topic that needs to be discussed, and it is an area where Building a Better Me Inc. is committed to making a positive impact.
Environmental justice refers to the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people, regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, in the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Racial justice, on the other hand, is the fair and just treatment of all individuals regardless of their race, ethnicity, or cultural background.
Unfortunately, environmental hazards and pollution often disproportionately affect BIPOC communities. This is due to a long history of systemic racism and discrimination that has resulted in the placement of hazardous waste sites, landfills, and other environmental hazards in BIPOC neighborhoods. This has led to increased exposure to pollution and higher rates of respiratory illnesses, asthma, cancer, and other chronic illnesses. Studies have shown that BIPOC communities are more likely to live in areas with poor air quality and to be exposed to toxic chemicals in the air, water, and soil.
In addition to environmental hazards, BIPOC communities are also more likely to experience the negative impacts of climate change. For example, during natural disasters such as hurricanes and wildfires, BIPOC communities are often hit the hardest and have less access to resources to recover and rebuild. These impacts further exacerbate existing inequalities and disparities.
Addressing the intersection of racial and environmental justice is crucial for the well-being and survival of BIPOC communities. Building a Better Me Inc. recognizes the importance of environmental justice and its impact on BIPOC families. Our organization is committed to working towards solutions that address both racial and environmental injustices, and we strive to empower and uplift BIPOC families to advocate for their rights and well-being.
One way we address environmental justice is through our health and wellness program. We provide resources and education to help families learn about healthy living practices and environmental hazards, and we work to promote access to clean air, water, and soil. Our financial literacy program also provides resources to help families understand and advocate for their rights related to environmental justice issues.
In addition to promoting environmental justice, we also recognize the importance of addressing racial justice and dismantling systemic racism. We provide education and resources to help families understand the impact of systemic racism on their lives and provide opportunities for advocacy and community engagement.
At Building a Better Me Inc., we believe that fighting for environmental justice is an important part of our mission to uplift, empower, and build self-esteem in BIPOC families. By addressing the intersection of racial and environmental justice, we can create a brighter future for all members of our community. Building a Better Me Inc. believes that everyone deserves to live in a safe and healthy environment, and we are dedicated to working towards a future where environmental and racial justice is a reality for all.
Written by: A.Sheree, Executive Director
