|
In 1982, Warren County became the site of a major environmental justice protest after toxic soil contaminated with PCBs, a known carcinogen, was dumped in the community without consent. Residents responded with nonviolent protests and legal action. Over six weeks, more than 500 people were arrested, making it clear that decisions about pollution were often made at the expense of communities of color. Their activism helped define the environmental justice movement.
This history is not just a reflection on the past—it’s a reminder of the work ahead.
Today, we are witnessing a new wave of policy changes that threaten the progress made over decades. A flurry of recent executive orders is rolling back protections that safeguard public health, putting underserved communities at greater risk of pollution, unsafe drinking water, and environmental hazards. These decisions echo past injustices—where underserved communities are the first to bear the burden and the last to see relief.
This past fall, our Executive Director, Michelle Naccarati-Chapkis, visited Warren County and met with Wayne Moseley, one of the first protesters arrested in 1982, and Reverend William Kearney, who carries the work forward today. Their stories show that change happens when people take a stand and that the lessons of Warren County must guide us as we continue advocating for healthier communities.
As history has shown, advocacy leads to action. The fight for environmental justice is far from over, and we remain committed to ensuring that progress is not undone.
📖 Read more about Michelle’s visit and the movement in Warren County.
| 
