An overview of environmental justice in Massachusetts and the US - definitions, populations, and water-related issues.

In this, the first session of the conference, speakers will address the basics of environmental justice (EJ) using examples from Southeastern Massachusetts and Rhode Island. Three expert panelists will cover:

1) Definitions of environmental justice, where EJ populations are located, what the general EJ issues are that pertain to water and healthy watersheds

2) EJ challenges in the region, such as wastewater management in Fall River, leaching of pollutants from junkyards into the Narragansett Bay, and mercury-contaminated fish consumption in various locations.

3) The inclusion of Black and indigenous people in stakeholder discussions on clean energy with an example from Block Island. How energy choices in Massachusetts affect indigenous people in Canada. A description of how chronic structural inequity damages the environment and health.

Following the presentations, there will be a 30-minute discussion and question and answer session. Attendees will receive a Zoom link prior to the event.

This event is free; however, donations will help us continue to provide educational programming and are greatly appreciated. You can add a donation when you register.

For more information and to register, CLICK HERE.