Day 13: Environmental Racism—An Historical and Ongoing Injustice
Environmental racism is a form of systemic inequality where marginalized communities, often communities of color, are disproportionately burdened with environmental hazards. From polluted neighborhoods to inequitable access to clean air and water, this issue reflects the intersections of racism and environmental injustice. Let’s take a closer look at both historical and modern examples, including the infamous Pruitt-Igoe housing project.
Historical Example: The Pruitt-Igoe Housing Project
In the mid-20th century, Pruitt-Igoe, a public housing project in St. Louis, Missouri, was a stark example of how systemic racism shaped the environment for Black communities. Built in the 1950s, it was initially heralded as a solution to urban overcrowding. However, poor design, lack of maintenance, and deliberate segregation policies created unsafe and unhealthy living conditions.
Environmental Issues: Residents endured overcrowding, inadequate waste disposal, and lack of green spaces. The buildings became a breeding ground for mold, pests, and disease.
Systemic Neglect: Pruitt-Igoe was neglected by city planners and funding agencies, reinforcing the idea that Black and low-income communities were less deserving of safe and healthy environments.
The project was eventually demolished in the 1970s, but the legacy of neglect persists in the environmental and social inequities that remain in many urban areas today.
Modern Examples of Environmental Racism
Flint Water Crisis (2014-present): In Flint, Michigan, a predominantly Black city, cost-cutting measures led to water contamination with dangerous levels of lead. Residents were forced to drink, cook, and bathe in toxic water for years, highlighting how racial and economic factors intersect in environmental crises.
Cancer Alley, Louisiana: Stretching along the Mississippi River, this area is home to a high concentration of petrochemical plants. Predominantly Black communities here experience elevated cancer rates due to toxic emissions, earning the region its grim nickname.
Hurricane Katrina (2005): When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans, predominantly Black and low-income neighborhoods faced the greatest destruction and the slowest recovery efforts. Environmental racism was evident in the lack of flood protection and disproportionate allocation of resources.
Urban Heat Islands: Low-income and minority neighborhoods in cities across the U.S. often have fewer trees and green spaces, leading to higher temperatures, poor air quality, and increased health risks compared to wealthier areas.
Why This Matters Today
Environmental racism isn’t just a historical issue; it’s an ongoing reality that perpetuates inequality. Addressing it requires systemic change, including equitable urban planning, stricter environmental regulations, and prioritization of affected communities in disaster recovery.
How Can You Help?
Support organizations fighting for environmental justice, like the Environmental Justice Alliance or local grassroots movements.
Advocate for policies that address systemic racism in urban planning and environmental regulation.
Educate yourself and others about the intersections of race, poverty, and environmental health.
Environmental justice is racial justice. Together, we can create a future where clean air, water, and safe living conditions are a right, not a privilege.
