Here’s Why Communities Must Come First: A Personal Perspective on Environmental Justice

As a lifelong advocate for communities of opportunity and the social determinants of health, I’ve always been deeply committed to understanding how these factors influence upward mobility. The health of our communities—socially, economically, and physically—directly affects their ability to thrive. But over the past few months, while working on the Community Change Grants, I’ve made a profound discovery: Environmental Justice is not just an environmental issue—it cuts to the core of who I am and what I’ve been advocating for my entire life.

Environmental justice speaks to the fundamental idea that communities, particularly those that have been historically marginalized, should have a say in decisions that directly impact their environment and health. It’s about ensuring that no group is disproportionately burdened with environmental harm, and that every person has a voice in shaping the solutions. This realization has deepened my commitment to putting communities at the center of every environmental conversation.

Here’s Why Communities Must Come First:

1. Environmental Justice is About People: My work has always focused on the people at the heart of the issues. Environmental justice ensures that no group bears the brunt of environmental harm without having a say in how it’s addressed. When the solutions come from within the community, they are not only effective but also culturally and socially aligned with the unique needs of the people involved. This has reinforced my belief that the most impactful solutions come from the ground up, not the top down.
2. Sustainability Depends on Community Buy-In: I’ve seen firsthand how important community ownership is to long-term success. Real, sustainable change only happens when the communities affected are involved in shaping the solutions. Without their buy-in, even the best-intended interventions can fall flat. But when people feel a sense of ownership over the changes being made, they ensure those improvements last long after the initial project ends.
3. Correcting Historical Power Imbalances: Throughout my career, I’ve witnessed how top-down approaches often marginalize the very communities they are meant to help. Environmental justice provides a pathway to correct these historical imbalances, shifting power back to the people who live with the consequences of environmental harm every day. By centering their voices, we not only foster trust but also develop solutions that are more just, equitable, and impactful.

This journey of discovery has reaffirmed my belief in the importance of community-driven solutions. Environmental justice isn't just another issue to address—it's at the heart of how we can create real, lasting change for communities that have been overlooked for too long. For me, it’s a natural extension of my lifelong commitment to advocating for communities of opportunity, and it’s a cause that I am deeply passionate about.

A Call to Action for Social Change Makers and Advocates:

Now, more than ever, we need to unite. Environmental justice is a fight that requires all of us—advocates, policymakers, community leaders, and social change makers—to step up and ensure that communities are not only heard but empowered. If you are passionate about social justice, health equity, or community empowerment, I urge you to join me in this movement. Together, we can shift the balance of power, ensure sustainable solutions, and build a future where no community is left behind.

Let’s connect, collaborate, and amplify the voices of those who have been silenced for too long. The fight for environmental justice is the fight for a better, more equitable world—and we can’t do it alone. Will you join me?