Minorities Confronting Environmental Racism through the Furtherance of Environmental Justice Movement in the United States

Abstract

This dissertation examined the phenomenon of Environmental racism in the USA. The primary victims of environmental racism were the poor, disenfranchised and minority communities who shouldered the burden of environmental hazards and toxic chemicals for several decades. This work chronicled how the affected communities launche d their movement to abate environmental inequalities and establish environmental justice. In this research, African Americans were used as a case study because of their sensitive position and major role in addressing environmental racism in the US. Therefore, it required some extensive analysis and discussion. The objective behind the case is to reveal whether environmental racism is real or merely a coincidence within the community of African Americans who happened to reside in an unhealthy and unsafe environment compared with white citizens, whether the US government had a role in addressing this problem and protecting residents or reinforcing such inequalities. It can be concluded from this study that environmental racism is a harsh reality in the US. However, it is very likely that progressive improvements will take place thanks to the ongoing grassroots activism, the expanded research on Environmental Injustice, and affected communities‟ efforts to protect their environment.