NYC community leaders want state lawmakers to pass environmental bills that protect the disadvantaged
Community leaders are asking lawmakers in Albany for a voice when discussing environmental policy.
“State legislators really need to hear from their constituents,” said Briana Carbajal, state legislative manager at WE ACT for Environmental Justice
We Act was one of the groups who traveled to the State Capitol on April 16, demanding the Legislature pass the Enhanced Public Participation Plans. Sponsored by Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher, this bill would require an enhanced public participation plan for all major projects close to ‘disadvantaged communities.’ “People need to be making informed decisions and have a seat at the table,” said Assemblywoman Emily Gallagher.
The bill was reintroduced during this session and passed the State Senate in February.
In Albany, advocates joined other New York community-based organizations to hear from experts and talk about their plans to address environmental justice awareness in their areas.
“Local communities are key because you’ll never find a real solution without involving them,” said Catherine Coleman Flowers, member of the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council.
In the last few weeks, We Act has participated in different community events working with local politicians to address environmental issues. Harlem residents have been advocating to involve local communities in the fight.
“It just stood out to me how unengaged social justice was, our movement was,” said Michael Delupter, a Harlem resident and environmental activist.
Also recently, Community Board 11 put together an event at the museum of the City of New York.
“It’s the voice of youth who are stepping us to lead, to tell us their priorities on environmental policies in the city,” said Manhattan Borough President Mark Levine.
The goal was to educate youth on climate change and environmental justice.
Francesca is an Italian reporter covering politics for City Newsroom. She has reported in print, web, audio and video. Francesca speaks three languages.