Our second webinar took place on Wednesday, October 21, 2020 from 12-1pm and we discussed Integrating Environmental Justice into Decision-Making. During the first half of the webinar, our invited speakers provided an overview from federal, state, and citizen perspectives. For the second half of the webinar, we invited your questions and lively discussion from all participants

Between protests against systemic racism to the social ramifications related to the COVID-19 pandemic, discussions around environmental justice are more prevalent than ever. In the Chesapeake Bay watershed, many lower-income communities, people of color, or minority groups are disproportionately affected by pollution and environmental threats, placing an unequal health burden on the people living there. Environmental justice refers to the efforts to change that and ensure equal access to clean water, clean air, and a safe environment.

Speakers:

• Reggie Harris, Branch Chief, Communities & Tribes Branch, Office of Communities, Tribes & Environmental Assessment, EPA
• Jim Edward, Deputy Director, EPA Chesapeake Bay Program
• Jay Ford, Virginia Policy and Grassroots Advisor, Chesapeake Bay Foundation
• Taylor Lilley, Environmental Justice Staff Attorney, Chesapeake Bay Foundation