Why is Racial Justice Climate Justice?
By Edie Whittington, NSEN Member
Edie is the Executive Director of the Happy Atmosphere Environmental Society, one of NSEN’s member organizations
The climate action movement is largely made up by privilege with a lack of diverse representation. This is caused by the systemic bias against people of colour and marginalized communities. It’s not because racial minorities aren’t interested in making change and learning more about environmental conservation. Many incredible environmentalists from the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, People of Colour) community don’t get the attention they deserve. Racism is creating this divide and in order to move forward and take action on climate change, it is important that racial justice is prioritized.
To address the climate crisis, there are numerous social, economic and political obstacles to overcome (Hewett, 2020). And to truly protect everyone from the changes in our future, we have to reconstruct our society rectifying centuries of systemic racism. Wealthy, privileged leaders sustain these injustices, benefitting from the use of greenhouse gases and those who suffer most from the consequences (Kaplan, 2020). Racism happens everywhere, yet it is often kept on the down low by news outlets and the general public. It’s important to face tense and uncomfortable conversations to learn about what’s really going on. In Nova Scotia, there are numerous accounts of police brutality and environmental racism. This shows that we need to address our current values and reflect on personal bias.
Communities with a large population of marginalized people in Nova Scotia have been greatly affected by environmental racism. In the documentary “There’s Something in the Water”, various examples are shown such as the waste facilities close to the African Nova Scotian community in Shelburne and the Northern pulp mill near an Indigenous community in Pictou. These communities are burdened with a disproportionate number of hazards that lower the quality of life (Lumen, Module 13). They have greater risk of health issues due to their proximity to hazardous waste facilities and exposure to dangerous chemicals.
The BIPOC community has always been on the frontlines when it comes to the effects of climate change. Vulnerable communities are hit hard by natural disasters and ecological changes due to the lack of economic security. But, they also have to endure the constant fear of police violence whether they are driving to work, or relaxing at home. Imagine battling climate anxiety as well as police anxiety. It shows that “To win on climate, we have to challenge and upend the power structures that have allowed the behemoth of state violence and racial injustice.” (Sigwalt, 2020). Even though Black and Indigenous community members are facing the effects of the climate crisis, joining the climate movement could be a big risk when attending protests and public events with bystanding police officers.
As the system changes in these uncertain times, we can all do our part. Those who have lived their lives with white privilege need to use their voice and privilege to actively observe the society we all live in, through a different perspective.
Speak out and amplify Black and Indigenous voices. Ask why there aren’t isn’t more representation of marginalized communities at your company. Support local leadership and vision of those affected by environmental racism. Have more conversations about racism. When you see someone being targeted based on the colour of their skin, reach out and support them.
We can make change! While supporting and nurturing leadership and new visions by people of colour, we can create a powerful and inclusive movement for climate justice. We need to protect black lives, acknowledge what needs to change and address inequity.