Equity & Justice

Low-income communities and communities of color suffer under the inextricably intertwined challenges of clean water, climate change, and economic, environmental, and social injustice. In the Chesapeake, frontline communities (such as the Cherry Hill neighborhood in downtown Baltimore, the historically black communities of Brandywine, MD and Brown Grove, VA, and poultry workers on the Eastern Shore) are burdened by flooding, drinking water hazards due to industrial contamination, and aging, poorly maintained water infrastructure. It is urgent that we all nurture the burgeoning grassroots movement of climate, justice, water, and public health interests coming together demanding equal justice and access to clean water.

Our priorities include:

  • Center equity in funding programs by identifying failures in how states prioritize funding in the battle against climate change, investments in infrastructure upgrades, agriculture subsidies, and other restoration programs.
  • Oppose developments that increase the burden on already overburdened communities.
  • Promote strong enforcement of environmental laws, increased budgets for inspection and enforcement personnel, and more serious repercussions for violators.
  • Ensure environmental justice and public empowerment by creating better accountability, systems, and transparency for meaningful environmental justice review.
  • Demand corporate accountability for toxics and waste in water by holding corporations liable for the pollution they create and regulate emerging contaminants in their products.
  • Enhance access to nature for all.
  • Elevate the voices of those fighting for justice and protecting their communities from pollution.

Virginia Supreme Court Decision Ensures Equitable Access to Courts

Virginia Supreme Court Decision Ensures Equitable Access to Courts

Hanover County residents’ challenge of Wegmans’ distribution center can go forward Takoma Park, MD (February 6) In a victory for ...
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On the 50th Anniversary of Clean Water Act, We Need to Act for a Cleaner, More Just Future

On the 50th Anniversary of Clean Water Act, We Need to Act for a Cleaner, More Just Future

The year 1972 created memorable and iconic moments for many people. 1972 gave us the first pocket calculator, Watergate, the ...
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A Narrow Reading of the Clean Water Act by the Supreme Court Would Endanger Us All

A Narrow Reading of the Clean Water Act by the Supreme Court Would Endanger Us All

On October 3rd, the Supreme Court heard the case of Sackett v. EPA, focused on deciding which types of waterways ...
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Our Land – Video on Eagle Harbor, MD by REI

Our Land – Video on Eagle Harbor, MD by REI

REI’s “Our Land” is a short documentary film that introduces the Black environmentalists and residents who are fighting to protect Eagle ...
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