As we conclude our celebration of Black History Month, it's important to share how the Environmental Justice movement is rooted in Black History.
In a conversation with Vernice Miller-Travis, Vice Chair of Clean Water Action's National Board, she shared her experiences in the Environmental Justice Movement.
She is one of the nation's pioneering and most respected thought leaders on environmental justice and the interplay of civil rights and environmental policy.
Vernice was a contributing author to the landmark 1987 report "Toxic Waste and Race in the United States". This sparked her interest to build a social movement that connects race, environment, economics, social justice and public health.
She played a key role in the drafting of the 17 principles of Environmental Justice and organizing of the First People Of Color Environmental Summit in 1991.
In addition, Vernice has vast experience as a civil rights and environmental policy analyst and advocate, consultant for federal and state agencies, foundations and non-profits; environmental program manager and foundation program officer. She is currently the Executive Vice President, Metropolitan Group.
As we prepare and train the next generation of Environmental Justice leaders and advocates, I was elated to afford them an opportunity to speak directly with a founding member of the Environmental Justice Movement.
For more information, watch the full video with Vernice Miller-Travis on the Chavis Chronicles as she discusses her roots in Harlem and her EJ work.
