Environmental and climate justice are at a critical juncture. Recent executive orders from the Trump Administration have dramatically scaled back or reversed prior commitments to remedy injustice and combat the climate crisis. SCSJ and other organizations who advocate for frontline communities fear the result will be less regulatory oversight and increased pollution that falls hardest on the historically marginalized communities already more susceptible to environmental and economic harm.
Black and brown communities in the South will suffer greatly, given that communities of color already face increased levels of industrial pollution, hazardous waste dumping, and systemic barriers to healthy environments.
Climate change intensifies these threats with rising temperatures, stronger storms, and increased flooding.
In this crossroads moment, we at SCSJ are reconfirming our commitment to pursue environmental justice in the South, with the knowledge that environmental harm is inextricably linked to racial, economic, and social injustices.
Our environmental justice legal team will continue to empower frontline communities to challenge discriminatory policies, demand accountability from polluters, and advocate for sustainable solutions that prioritize people over profit.
We will defend the rights of those harmed by environmental degradation and climate disasters and work with community partners in pursuit of a cleaner, healthier, and more just world.