Blog: Class #2 Recap: Environmental Justice in Action
The Sustainable Steel Community Cohort (SSCC) gathered for its second session in July 2024, hosted at the Dean and Barbara White Community Center. This class offered participants an in-depth exploration of environmental justice concepts through discussions, presentations, and storytelling.
Welcome and Class Recap
Industrious Labs Partner and Co-Facilitator Dominique Thomas started the day with music and a slideshow recapping the first class. Afterward, Lee reminded participants of their progress and contributions, recognizing the dedication and unique perspectives each cohort member brings to the program.
To break the ice, participants teamed up for a trivia game, recapping key lessons from the first session, including Cooney's "Steel 101" presentation. The trivia also tested their knowledge of each other, fostering camaraderie and fun. Though there was a winning team, the participants shared the prize, reflecting the cooperative spirit of the group.
Community Organization Presentations
Three community-based organizations opened the day, sharing how their work intersects with environmental justice and steel-related issues in Northwest Indiana:
Gary Advocates for Responsible Development (GARD): Board Member Carrie discussed GARD's work in community engagement and permitting processes. She invited cohort members to their September conference, encouraging long-term involvement.
Mighty Earth: Mike Oles spoke about clean steel initiatives and student organizing, emphasizing the importance of community mobilization in driving political and cultural change.
Citizens Action Coalition: Kerwin, Executive Director, shared his transition into environmental advocacy and presented data on CAC’s energy policy and lobbying efforts at the state level. He provided resources for cohort members to better understand statewide environmental justice initiatives.
The presentations led to valuable discussions and opportunities for participants to connect with these organizations.
Steel Stories, Part 2
This module further developed the cohort’s storytelling skills. Participants shared personal stories about their experiences with the steel industry, receiving feedback from Lee and fellow members. Emotions ranged from heartfelt to humorous, with one participant’s story about a near-fatal workplace incident highlighting the need for safety and modernization in steel facilities.
This exercise was a key part of the cohort’s journey to refining their storytelling and effectively advocating for sustainable steel and healthier communities.
Environmental Justice 101
Dominique’s presentation on environmental justice connected historical issues, such as colonization and segregation, to current environmental challenges faced by communities. The session included videos on the trans-Atlantic slave trade and redlining, linking these moments in history to modern environmental injustice.
Participants engaged in deep discussions, analyzing issues like gentrification, racism, and displacement. The conversation sparked a lively debate on the roles of economic organizing and political decision-making in environmental justice through the lens of the Obama Presidential Center in Chicago.
By the end of the session, participants were encouraged to reflect on how the day’s discussions intersected with their personal stories, emphasizing the power of collective action.
Conclusion
Looking ahead, the next class will focus on storytelling and messaging. Participants will continue refining their stories using insights from Cooney and Dominique’s presentations, building on the skills they’ve developed. Stay tuned for more updates as we work towards a healthier, more sustainable future for Northwest Indiana.
