A coalition of groups will host a symposium in Tampa just in time for Earth Day Friday. The symposium will address environmental justice issues as well as inequities in the community.
Participants will share stories about issues such as environmental justice, human rights, connections between environmental effects and public health, and energy-related burdens.
“The People Power Environmental Justice & Energy SymposiumThis event is sponsored by Blaq Earth, The Urban Progress Alliance and CHISPA.
Walter L. Smith II, founder of Blaq Earth and event organizer, stated that this event is essential to address environmental inadequacies faced by minorities.
He said that the energy and environmental justice portion deals with the historical effects of past injustices, such as Jim Crow, redlining, Jim Crow, and other inequalities.
He said that the problem of hazardous materials being produced by factories and industrial operations is a concern that affects all income levels, regardless of race.
He stated that it was important to mobilize people without a voice so that they can become that voice, be that instrument, and save themselves rather than waiting for a government organization or someone to save them.
We’ll be looking at the current situation, and what’s happening in these underserved communities on the frontline, he said. They are facing these issues, why do they exist, where are our polluted areas or trouble areas within our communities and what needs to be done? How can we do this?
Participants will be encouraged to collaborate to find solutions to practices and policies of government, communities and businesses that are not environmentally-friendly.
Smith stressed that anyone is welcome as these are the types of conversations that must take place right now.
He stated that we must do something different. It won’t be possible if we don’t do it now. If it isn’t done, we’ll see real destruction like we’ve never seen before.
The event will take places Friday at the Reed at ENCORE senior living complex at 1240 Ray Charles Blvd. Tampa.
Register interested individuals and organizations Here.
