Perspectives on Progress in Local Environmental Justice

Hear from two of Connecticut’s leading figures in environmental justice on how progress is made, from the grassroots activist level to the political level. Sharon Lewis introduces us to the work of the CT Coalition for Environmental Justice, describing the ways that they attempt to educate politicians, overcome common roadblocks, and ultimately get attention towards the most relevant issues through strategic communications. Then, Justin Farmer will take the baton to describe what it is like on the political level, how he sees the roles of activities and students from the perspective of a progressive politician, and the future of the EJ movement. Both panelists will illustrate these points by describing their experiences fighting for reforms like the closure of incinerators, a fracking ban, and more. Moderator, Professor, and Faculty Director of the Yale Center for Environmental Justice Gerald Torres will then bring the two into conversation on their overlapping experiences.