Addition of East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice and Green Door Initiative broadens regional reach on national forum, strengthens EJ representation
WASHINGTON (June 7, 2022) – The Equitable and Just Climate National Forum (EJNCF) welcomed two new members to its roster of environmental justice and national environmental organizations: East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice and Green Door Initiative.
The two new participants will further strengthen the representation of environmental justice voices within the EJNCF, which now includes 20 organizations working to advance economic, racial, climate, and environmental justice across the nation. The addition of Los Angeles-based East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice will expand the EJNCF’s reach on the west coast.
“The lower LA region on Tongva land is a vibrant place where many communities of color and working families call home. Unfortunately, this is also an area that has been targeted by industrial polluters such as oil refineries and waste incinerators that have been actively harming our communities, and we’ve been working hard to keep our environment healthy and safe,” said Taylor Thomas, co-director of East Yard Communities for Environmental Justice. “It’s hard work, but the load feels lighter knowing we’re part of a national network of like-minded advocates. We’re honored and excited to join this historical partnership.”
“For twenty years EYCEJ, has worked to alleviate and mitigate the increasing environmental health impacts of industries producing pollution adjacent to the homes, schools, and playgrounds of nearby communities,” said Dawud Shabaka with Harambee House/Citizens for Environmental Justice Georgia, who nominated EYCEJ to the Forum. “Though based in California, EYCEJ has added its voice to the struggle for equity and environmental justice at conventions, convenings, and events across the nation in support of eliminating historical racism, sexism, and classism that is at the root of any true solution to this issue. We’re thrilled to welcome them to the Forum.”
Based in Detroit, Green Door Initiative leads environmental justice programs that fight for clean air and water, create good jobs, increase access to solar energy, and center youth voices. “Green Door was founded in search of the question: If we achieved environmental justice in Detroit, what would that look like?” said Donele Wilkins, president and CEO of Green Door Initiative. “We are building our way towards a vision where environmental racism is a distant memory for generations, and a world where everyone, regardless of race, zip code, and income can thrive.”
“I’ve been deeply impressed by Green Door’s vision and creativity in pursuing multi-faceted solutions,” said Dr. Beverly Wright, executive director of the Deep South Center for Environmental Justice, who nominated Green Door to the Forum. “From smart policies to workforce development programs, their work advances environmental justice in ways that are both relevant and impactful for communities in Detroit.”
“The Center for Earth, Energy and Democracy (CEED) is excited to see the EJNCF expand its membership. EYCEJ and Green Door have been leaders in the environmental justice movement for years, advocating for communities often not included in decision making processes. The experience they bring is vital to ensure the EJNCF continues its historic work in climate policy to ensure no communities are left behind” said Bill Gallegos, CEED Board Member.
Visit https://ajustclimate.org/ for more information about the Equitable and Just National Climate Platform, including the full list of signatories. Please contact Jake Thompson at jthompson@nrdc.org or Anahí Naranjo at anaranjo@ceed.org if you have any additional questions.
