History The Civil Rights Movement Questions
During the Civil Rights Movement, there were several key achievements and advancements in environmental justice. One significant achievement was the establishment of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) in 1970, which aimed to protect human health and the environment. This agency played a crucial role in addressing environmental issues and ensuring equal protection for all communities, including marginalized groups affected by pollution and environmental hazards.
Another important advancement was the passage of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) in 1969. NEPA required federal agencies to consider the environmental impact of their actions and involve the public in decision-making processes. This legislation helped to ensure that environmental justice concerns were taken into account when implementing policies and projects.
Furthermore, the Civil Rights Movement also brought attention to the disproportionate burden of pollution and environmental hazards on minority communities. Activists and organizations, such as the United Church of Christ's Commission for Racial Justice, conducted studies like the "Toxic Wastes and Race in the United States" report in 1987, which highlighted the environmental racism faced by these communities. This increased awareness led to the inclusion of environmental justice as a key component of the movement's agenda.
Overall, the Civil Rights Movement made significant strides in advancing environmental justice through the establishment of the EPA, the passage of NEPA, and raising awareness about environmental racism. These achievements helped to address the unequal distribution of environmental burdens and promote equal protection for all communities.