Résumé:
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.
