The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice (CCAEJ) is a progressive equity-based organization that works to improve the social and natural environment of the Inland Valley, which includes:Riverside and San Bernardino counties in California.
CCAEJ focuses on the communities most affected by environmental health hazards, such as low-income communities of color and immigrant families.
This article will explore how the CCAEJ is making a difference in various areas, such as environmental justice, community action, and leadership development.
Environmental Justice
Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.
The CCAEJ advocates for environmental justice by challenging the root causes of environmental injustice, such as racism, classism, and corporate power.
The CCAEJ also supports the communities that are most impacted by environmental health hazards, such as:
- air pollution toxic
- waste climate change
Some of the examples of the CCAEJ’s work on environmental justice are:
Fighting against the illegal disposal of Exide waste at Stringfellow, a toxic waste site in Jurupa Valley.
Filing a lawsuit against the city of Ontario for approving a massive logistics center that would increase traffic and pollution. Organizing an “Adelanto Toxic Tour” to expose the issues of environmental racism and its impact on detained immigrants.
Partnering with the Riverside Neighbors Opposing Warehouses (R-NOW) to oppose the proposed developments that would destroy natural spaces and harm the community.
Community Action
Community action is the process of mobilizing people to collectively address their common concerns and achieve their shared goals.
The CCAEJ engages in community action by building grassroots power and fostering community solidarity.
The CCAEJ also provides education, training, and outreach activities to raise awareness and empower the community members.
Some of the examples of the CCAEJ’s work on community action are:
- Publishing a magazine called “Community Action” that showcases the stories and achievements of the community.
- Hosting events such as workshops, webinars, town halls, rallies, and marches to inform and inspire the community.
- Creating community groups such as M.A.L.O. Ontario, a youth-led organization that promotes cultural preservation and sustainability.
- Supporting community campaigns such as “No More Diesel Deaths”, “Clean Air Now”, and “Stop Toxic Trucks” to demand environmental justice.
Leadership Development
Leadership development is the process of enhancing the skills and abilities of individuals to lead themselves and others effectively.
The CCAEJ invests in leadership development by nurturing resilient BIPOC intergenerational leadership that can transform the communities.
The CCAEJ also offers opportunities for leadership growth and recognition to the community members.
Some of the examples of the CCAEJ’s work on leadership development are:
- Launching a program called “Leadership Academy” that trains emerging leaders on topics such as organizing, advocacy, policy, media, and fundraising.
- Establishing a network called “Environmental Justice Fellows” that connects current and former leaders who have completed the Leadership Academy.
- Honoring outstanding leaders with awards such as “Environmental Justice Champion”, “Community Hero”, and “Youth Leader” at an annual gala event.
- Collaborating with other organizations such as IC4IJ, Sierra Club, NRDC, and EYCEJ to amplify the voices and actions of the leaders.
READ ALSO: New York City Environmental Justice Alliance, NYC-EJA: A Powerful Voice for the Marginalized
Conclusion
The Center for Community Action and Environmental Justice is a progressive equity-based organization that works to improve the social and natural environment of the Inland Valley.
The CCAEJ focuses on the communities most affected by environmental health hazards, such as low-income communities of color and immigrant families.
CCAEJ makes a difference in various areas, such as environmental justice, community action, and leadership development. The CCAEJ is a model of hope, unity, and solutions that can inspire social change.
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