Category: Backyard Monthly

Residents of East Palestine, Ohio, affected by the February 2023 Norfolk Southern train derailment, had until July 1, 2024, to opt out of a proposed $600 million class action settlement. The derailment involved a train carrying hazardous chemicals, which led to a controlled burn and significant exposure to toxic substances for the local community. This proposed settlement is intended to compensate those who lived, worked, or owned property within a 20-mile radius of the derailment site between February 3, 2023, and April 26, 2024. 

Under the terms of the proposed settlement, compensation will vary based on proximity to the derailment site and the severity of the impact. Households within two miles of the site could receive up to $70,000 for property damage and $10,000 for personal injury, while those further away will receive significantly less. Businesses can also claim losses, and there are provisions for extraordinary injuries. Some residents have expressed concerns that the compensation might not be sufficient to cover all damages and long-term health impacts. The final approval hearing for the settlement is scheduled for September 25, 2024, with the deadline to submit claims set for August 22, 2024.

The new EPA Museum in Washington D.C., located in the William Jefferson Clinton Building, offers an interactive journey through the history of environmental regulation and conservation in the United States. The museum features a timeline of pivotal events and legislation since the EPA’s establishment in 1970, along with engaging exhibits such as the “Clean Air Act” simulation and the “Superfund Sites” interactive map. It aims to educate visitors about ongoing environmental challenges and the science behind protection efforts, highlighting cutting-edge research and technological advancements.

One of the most compelling exhibits is “Voices of the EPA,” which shares first-hand accounts from EPA employees, scientists, and activists. The museum also looks to the future with exhibits that explore green technologies, renewable energy sources, and ways to reduce environmental footprints. Open to the public with free admission, the EPA Museum is a valuable resource for students, educators, families, and anyone interested in the environment, science, and public policy.

A notable exhibit is dedicated to Lois Gibbs and the Love Canal disaster, highlighting her pivotal role in advocating for the cleanup of the toxic waste site in Niagara Falls, New York. This exhibit delves into Gibbs’ grassroots activism, which led to the evacuation and relocation of hundreds of families and eventually to the creation of the Superfund program. Her story exemplifies the power of community activism in shaping environmental policy and is a poignant reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in protecting public health and the environment.

The “American Experience” documentary “Poisoned Ground: The Tragedy at Love Canal” premiered on April 22 on PBS. It chronicles the story of Love Canal, a neighborhood in Niagara Falls, N.Y., where residents discovered their homes were built on a toxic chemical waste dump, leading to health crises. The documentary highlights how ordinary women fought for their families’ safety, challenged those in power, and galvanized a grassroots movement that led to the landmark Superfund Bill. The Love Canal tragedy began with industrial waste dumping in the late 1940s and escalated in the 1970s with widespread health issues. Residents, led by activist Lois Gibbs, pushed for government action, eventually leading to federal emergency declarations and the passage of the Superfund Bill, marking Love Canal as the first Superfund site for cleanup. Filmmaker Jamila Ephron emphasizes the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized communities affected by toxic waste contamination.

• Watch “Poisoned Ground: The Tragedy at Love Canal” on YouTube
• Pre-Order a copy of the “Poisoned Ground: The Tragedy at Love Canal” on DVD
• How women led the activism that created the Superfund program – by Houston Public Media

The East Palestine, Ohio train derailment underscores the need for vigilance in ensuring the safety of our communities and the environment. By understanding the impacts of such incidents and taking proactive measures, we can work towards building resilient and sustainable communities. It hasn’t been long since the one year anniversary of the train derailment, and we find it absoutely imperative to keep the momentum brought on by informed awareness.

CHEJ wants to provide you with a central hub of information as a means to understand the incident, its implications, and steps being taken to mitigate its effects. In the days and weeks to come CHEJ will be curating collections of information, both from CHEJ and informative articles from around the web in one convienent location. 

Welcome to this year’s first edition of our monthly digest at the Center for Health, Environment, and Justice in this exciting new year! As we step into 2024, our optimism is fueled by the incredible strides made by you. All of the inspiring stories, highlights of progress, and ongoing efforts by individuals and organizations at the forefront.

Our collective efforts continue to bridge gaps and amplify voices, ensuring that marginalized communities disproportionately affected by environmental issues are heard and empowered. Through education, advocacy, and innovative solutions, we’re building a more inclusive and resilient world.

Thank you for being part of our community, and let’s embark on this new year as we navigate the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead, unified in our commitment to healthier, more equitable communities for all.

This year CHEJ introduced our new monthly newsletter, The Backyard Monthly. This newsletter was designed to provide you with an update on CHEJ’s monthly activities. Our blogs, monthly training calls, Toxic Tuesdays, EJ Minute Podcast and more can now all be accessed and viewed in one, digestible email. We would like to take a short look back on just a few of the many highlights from 2023.

CHEJ’s Science Director and toxicologist, Stephen Lester, has been participating in the community response to the Norfolk Southern train derailment that resulted in spilling five tanker cars of vinyl chloride on the side of the tracks and intentionally burning it in the town of East Palestine, OH. Stephen’s 40 plus years of scientific and environmental justice expertise has been covered by several leading news organizations.

Stephen presented “Truth and Consequences” at the Midwest Environmental Health Summit on June 3, 2023, hosted by Citizens for a Clean Wausau. See the video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hMlDbkuD8bE

Our senior organizer and Small-Grants Manager, Teresa Mills, had also been engaging with Ohio-based environmental groups who are working with the East Palestine residents. Stephen and Teresa’s work is a prime example of what CHEJ has been doing for the past 42 years: providing scientific and organizing support to grassroots community-based organizations.

We were thrilled to reflect upon the remarkable success of the 2023 People’s Action Initiative Convention this past June! The purpose of this convention was to start an Organizing Revival to “re-ground the movement for multiracial democracy in the powerful skills and traditions of community organizing.” With a collective commitment to building a more just and sustainable future.

You don’t want to miss out on “Art Works”, by Ken Grossinger! This amazing book released earlier this year provides an inside look at the organizers and artists on the front lines of political mobilization and social change. Learn more and order a copy today!

Have you read “You Are Your Own Best Teacher” yet? In February, we highlighted the latest incredible book by social scientist and activist Claire Nader. Spark curiosity, imagination, and intellect by adding this book to your collection today! 

Last month, we had the privilege of being joined by CHEJ’s Founder Lois Gibbs to lead an amazing training call on how to set fundraising objectives, identify the target audience, and discover appropriate opportunities to meet your fundraising goals. Here’s a summary of what Lois covered.

Individual donor fundraising is crucial for organizational stability and community support, providing unrestricted funds for various needs. It builds people power, expands volunteer bases, and boosts your influence with corporations and elected officials. In the U.S., 68% of charitable contributions come from individuals, even those with modest incomes, highlighting the importance of asking for contributions from your community. Don’t underestimate the potential support from your neighbors and local community members. Asking for money might be uncomfortable, but embracing both donor and fundraiser roles can significantly benefit your organization’s long-term success.

Overcoming resistance to fundraising and understanding your personal relationship with money is essential, and remember that it’s about your organization, not you. Assess your feelings when asking for or giving money. Develop a clear individual donor fundraising plan with specific goals, audience, strategies, and timelines. Personal stories matter when explaining your involvement in the cause. Practicing mindfulness and intuitive communication with potential donors is key, and always express gratitude and invite them to join your cause.

If you would like to see the full training call, you can view the replay here.

As the leaves begin to change and the air turns crisper, we welcome the arrival of fall. While this season brings a picturesque transformation of nature, it also brings certain challenges, particularly when it comes to chemical exposure. At CHEJ, our commitment to environmental justice extends to every season, and we want to ensure you and your community stay informed and protected.

Fall presents unique environmental risks due to changes in weather patterns, outdoor activities, and agricultural practices. Here are some important considerations:

1. Pesticides and Herbicides: Fall is a time when farmers often apply pesticides and herbicides to their crops. These chemicals can drift through the air and settle on nearby communities, posing health risks to residents. It’s crucial to stay informed about local agricultural practices and advocate for responsible and safe pesticide use.

2. Indoor Air Quality: As the temperatures drop, we spend more time indoors, where air quality can sometimes be worse than outdoor air. Poor ventilation, the use of certain heating sources, and the release of indoor pollutants from household products can lead to indoor air pollution. Proper ventilation and the use of air purifiers can help mitigate these risks.

3. Mold and Moisture: Fall’s damp weather can lead to increased moisture in homes, creating conditions conducive to mold growth. Mold can release harmful spores that affect indoor air quality and trigger respiratory problems. Regular home maintenance and addressing moisture issues promptly are essential.

4. Chemicals in Yard Care, School Supplies, and Household Cleaners: Several kinds of school supplies, lawn fertilizers, and cleaners may contain hazardous chemicals that can be abrasive or could have potentially dangerous effects on your child’s development. Be mindful of the products you use and their potential environmental and health impacts. Our August Training Call with the Children’s Environmental Health Network (CEHN) provides a helpful insight into what eco-friendly alternatives are available. You can also check out our resources on detoxifying your home and non-toxic cleaning.

As advocates for environmental justice, we encourage you to take steps to protect yourself, your family, and your community during the fall season. This includes staying informed about local environmental issues, advocating for responsible chemical use, and adopting eco-friendly practices in your daily life.

As the summer begins to wind down and we approach a new school year, CHEJ continues to strive for safer, healthier environments for our children to learn and grow in. We recently hosted a free video training call in collaboration with our associates at the Children’s Environmental Health Network (CEHN). The focus of this call was to raise awareness on the potential environmental hazards our children could be returning to in their schools this year.

In this important discussion, we delved into the unique vulnerability of children to environmental hazards, outlined common school hazards, and shared a wealth of educational and advocacy resources aimed at improving school environmental health. A standout resource presented during the call was CEHN’s Eco-Healthy Child Care® program, a vital initiative for promoting safer, healthier learning environments.

See the training call here

We at CHEJ are thrilled to reflect upon the remarkable success of the 2023 People’s Action Initiative Convention last June! This year’s gathering of dedicated activists and community leaders was nothing short of inspiring. As an organization committed to environmental justice and empowering grassroots movements, we are eager to promote and share the valuable insights, knowledge, and discussions that took place during this convention.

The purpose of this convention was to start an Organizing Revival to “re-ground the movement for multiracial democracy in the powerful skills and traditions of community organizing.” With a collective commitment to building a more just and sustainable future, we are excited to be a part of People’s Action Initiative’s efforts in amplifying the movement’s impact and ensuring that it continues to shape and invigorate environmental justice at all levels.